| Update Applicable to: | Effective Date |
| All Covered Employers (10 or more employees) | Retroactive Application Since January 1, 2025 |
What happened?
On May 15, 2025, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signed House Bill 667 into law, expanding protections for employees who run for or serve in public office. The law imposes new obligations on employers and is retroactively effective from January 1, 2025.
Overview:
Who is covered? All Montana employers with employees who may seek or hold public office, with additional reinstatement obligations applying to those with 10 or more employees.
New Employer Requirements in Montana
- No Restrictions or Discrimination: Employers may not prohibit or restrict employees from running for or being appointed to public office (city, county, or state), nor may they retaliate or discriminate against employees for doing so.
- Leave of Absence Protections: Employees serving in public office must be granted a mandatory leave of absence. During this time, employers cannot:
- Require the use of paid leave or benefits without the employee’s consent.
- Require the employee to perform any work.
- Continued Access to Benefits and Equipment
- Employers must continue providing healthcare coverage with the same benefits and covered individuals.
- If personal use of company phones, computers, or phone numbers is allowed, employees must retain access to them during their leave.
Action for Employers
- Update your elected official leave policy to reflect these changes.
Source References
Resources
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