Our Case Against I-194
Initiative I-194 is a direct attack on the First Amendment rights of Montana businesses, cooperatives, and the organizations that represent working Montanans.
Who We Are
Montanans for Free Speech is a political committee formed by the Montana Chamber of Commerce to oppose Initiative I-194, also called the Montana Plan. We represent Montana businesses, cooperatives, trade associations, and nonprofits — the organizations at the heart of Montana’s economy and communities.
What I-194 Actually Does
I-194 would prohibit businesses, nonprofits, trade associations, cooperatives, and other organizations from participating in ballot initiative campaigns in Montana. Full stop.
At the same time, I-194 places no limits whatsoever on wealthy individuals. Out-of-state billionaires retain unlimited free speech rights under this initiative. In the 2024 election cycle alone, 300 billionaires spent more than $3 billion influencing elections across the country. None of that is touched by I-194.
Real campaign finance reform holds everyone to the same standard. I-194 does not.
“This is a fundamental First Amendment issue. I-194 silences Montana businesses and the groups that represent them, while leaving out-of-state billionaires completely unrestricted. That is not reform — that is targeting.”
Todd O’Hair, President & CEO, Montana Chamber of Commerce
THe Double STandard is Clear
BANNED under I-194
Montana businesses
Cooperatives
Trade associations
Nonprofits
Chambers of commerce
EXEMPTED under I-194
Individual billionaires
Out-of-state donors
Wealthy individuals, no limit
Signed the Petition?
*
Signed the Petition? *
You can still withdraw before June 19, 2026.