The Office of the Secretary of State has a long history in Montana. It is mentioned in the Organic Act (13 Stat. 85, Chapter 95) that was passed by the United States Congress on May 24, 1864, that created the Territory of Montana. The Office is listed as an Executive Department in the Montana Constitutions of 1884 and 1889, as well as the current Montana Constitution, originally passed in 1972. The duties and functions of the Secretary of State are outlined in the Montana Constitution and Title 2, Chapter 15, Part 4 of the Montana Code Annotated (2-15-401, MCA).
DIVISIONS
- Business Services Division
The Business Services Division offers an extensive range of services to Montana businesses, including corporations, limited liability companies, and nonprofits. The Division assists businesses with the filing of their registration, articles of organization, assumed business name, and trademarks. Additionally, the division is responsible for filing and maintaining records under the Uniformed Commercial Code (UCC). - Elections and Voter Services Division
The Elections and Voter Services Division assists Montana voters, candidates, and election officials. The Division interprets election laws and provides guidance to ensure uniformity across Montana elections. - Operations Division
The Operations Division provides a variety of services both internally to the Office and externally to the public. The Division’s primary functions include Human Resources, Communications, Fiscal Management, Information Technology and Security, Official Records, Records Management, Administrative Rules, and Notary.