This bill provides an appropriation for the expenses of the office of the Secretary of State in North Dakota for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. It includes a total funding amount of $23,517,888, which encompasses salaries, operating expenses, grants, and election reform initiatives. Notably, the bill introduces a new "Base Level Enhancements Appropriation" for various budget items, including election reform, which is allocated $9,227,814. Additionally, it specifies a transfer of up to $600,000 from the general fund to the election fund to match federal funds received during the biennium.

The bill also amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code, primarily changing references from the "Secretary of State" to the "Legislative Council" in relation to the publication and distribution of state laws. This includes amendments to sections concerning the official distribution of state laws, the duties of the legislative council, and the disposal of old laws. Furthermore, the salary of the Secretary of State is adjusted, with a new annual salary of $139,256 through June 30, 2026, and $143,434 thereafter. The bill also includes exemptions for certain appropriated funds from federal sources, allowing unexpended funds to be used for specific election-related projects.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations - Education and Environment Division Committee: 46-03-11, 46-04-01, 46-04-03, 46-04-04, 46-04-10, 46-04-14, 46-04-18, 46-04-19, 54-09-05
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 46-03-11, 46-04-01, 46-04-03, 46-04-04, 46-04-10, 46-04-14, 46-04-18, 46-04-19, 54-09-05
Enrollment: 46-03-11, 46-04-01, 46-04-03, 46-04-04, 46-04-10, 46-04-14, 46-04-18, 46-04-19, 54-09-05