Federal Judge Extends Order Blocking Mail Ballot Restrictions

Why it matters locally: The extended federal court order preventing new restrictions on mail-in ballots directly impacts Montana, which utilizes mail-in voting. This means the state will not be immediately required to implement new mandates, such as scannable ballot envelopes or providing federal lists of eligible voters.

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A federal judge has indefinitely extended a prior order that prevents the implementation of proposed restrictions on mail-in ballots. The Trump administration's plan outlined specific requirements for states regarding mail-in voting procedures. The proposed changes included a mandate for states to use scannable ballot envelopes. Additionally, the plan required states to provide the federal government with lists identifying voters eligible to receive mail ballots. David Becker, from the Center for Election Innovation and Research, discussed the issue. The court's extended order means these specific requirements will not take effect as scheduled. The legal action prevents the administration from implementing these particular changes to mail-in voting rules.