HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Montana law that appeared to require people to cancel any previous voter registrations before signing up to vote in the state, or risk facing felony charges.
U.S. District Court Judge Brian Morris said Wednesday that he agreed with the plaintiffs who argued the law was vague and overbroad and could cause people to decide not to register to vote for fear of being charged with a crime. The penalties include fines of up to $5,000 and up to 18 months in prison.
The lawmaker who sponsored the bill during the 2023 legislative session said it was meant to make it clear that people can’t double vote. That is already illegal under federal and state law.
The problem with the law, attorney Raph Graybill said Thursday, was that it didn’t create a clear process for someone to cancel their previous registrations.
Sensitive NZ Police video evidence shuffled around US tech companies
Doggy ballgowns, surveillance tech and cloning services for sale at China pet fair
Greek vessel hit by missile in Red Sea attack
Mohammad Mokhber: Who is Iran’s acting president?
Christchurch man jailed for 14 years over role in US porn videos
Some imported animal products using production methods illegal in New Zealand
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon corrects himself on Gaza statement
Company wins court ruling to continue development of Michigan factory serving EV industry
Homes catch fire as lava spills onto town in Iceland
Travis Kelce downs whiskey shot on slice of bread at Kelce Jam without Taylor Swift
Pedestrian dies after being hit by truck in Northland