(1) The articles of incorporation of a cooperative must state in the caption that the articles of incorporation are executed pursuant to this chapter, must be signed by each of the incorporators, and must state:
(a) the name of the cooperative;
(b) the address of its principal office;
(c) the names and addresses of the incorporators;
(d) the names and addresses of the persons who constitute its first board of trustees; and
(e) any provisions not inconsistent with this chapter considered necessary or advisable for the conduct of its business and affairs.
(2) In addition to provisions required in subsection (1), the articles of incorporation may also contain:
(a) provisions not inconsistent with law regarding liability as provided in 35-14-202; and
(b) provisions for classification of members in a cooperative.
(3) A cooperative’s articles of incorporation must be submitted to the secretary of state for filing as provided in this chapter.
(4) It is not necessary to include in the articles of incorporation of a cooperative the purpose for which it is organized or any of the corporate powers vested in a cooperative under this chapter.
Articles of Incorporation & Bylaws
BEC Articles of Incorporation
Amended-1977
Articles of Incorporation Amended 1977 (PDF)
Conversion-1938
Articles of Conversion Original 1938 (PDF)
Original-1938
BEC Articles of Incorporation Original 1938 (PDF)
Montana Code Annotated 2021
TITLE 35. CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, AND ASSOCIATIONS
CHAPTER 18. RURAL COOPERATIVE UTILITIES
Part 2. Formation — Articles of Incorporation — Bylaws
35-18-203. Articles of incorporation.
BEC Bylaws for a Democratic Cooperative
- Transparency
- Best Business Practices
- Member Involvement
Montana Law Conformity
MCA 35-18-207. Bylaws. The original bylaws of a cooperative shall be adopted by its members. The bylaws shall set forth the rights and duties of members and may contain other provisions for the regulation and management of the affairs of the cooperative.