HELENA – A conservative advocacy group is challenging Montana Gov. Steve Bullock’s executive order that requires organizations who receive state contracts to report political contributions that exceed $2,500, even if those disclosures aren’t required under federal election laws.
The federal court challenge was filed Tuesday by the Illinois Opportunity Group. The group plans to spend money during the 2020 election cycle to urge Montana gubernatorial candidates to repeal the executive order.
IOP argues requiring disclosure of donations could lead to personal and economic repercussions for its supporters, who may want to seek state contracts in Montana.
Bullock says IOC is claiming they want to corrupt Montana’s governor race but they don’t want anyone to see who’s donating.
Daniel Suhr, an attorney with Liberty Justice Center, said Bullock’s executive order violates free speech and privacy rights.