Montana Title 13. Elections § 13-28-401. Suit to determine validity and constitutionality of petition and proposed action

(1) The governing body of the local government may direct that a suit be brought in district court by the local government to determine whether the proposed action is valid and constitutional.  The suit must be initiated within 14 days of the date a petition is approved as to form under 13-28-201.

(2) An action brought under this section takes precedence over other cases and matters in the district court.  The court shall render a decision as soon as possible as to whether the proposed action is valid and constitutional.

(3) If the defendant prevails, the defendant is entitled to be reimbursed by the local government for costs and reasonable attorney fees incurred.

(4) The 90-day period during which petition signatures must be collected under 13-28-207 begins on the date of the court order resolving the suit.