This bill provides funding for the North Dakota Ethics Commission, appropriating a total of $1,368,016 from the general fund for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. This includes a one-time allocation of $52,348 for a case management system and office furniture. The bill introduces new provisions that grant immunity to legislative assembly members from criminal prosecution when they follow conflict of interest rules while voting, and it allows reliance on informal advice from ethics commission staff as an affirmative defense in such cases. Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code to clarify definitions, procedures for handling complaints, and the roles of the ethics commission.

Key amendments include the replacement of the term "accused individual" with "respondent," which emphasizes the rights of individuals under investigation. The ethics commission is required to provide written findings of investigations to the respondent and prepare a report and recommendation after each investigation. New procedures for complaint management are established, including time standards for resolution and an annual report detailing the number of complaints and actions taken. The bill also emphasizes the confidentiality of complainants and allows the commission to recommend new or revised laws to enhance public confidence in government. Certain sections are declared as emergency measures, highlighting their immediate importance.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations Committee: 12.1-13-02, 54-66-12, 54-66-18
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Mathern: 12.1-13-02, 54-66-01, 54-66-04, 54-66-05, 54-66-06, 54-66-07, 54-66-08, 54-66-09, 54-66-10, 54-66-12, 54-66-18
Enrollment: 12.1-13-02, 54-66-01, 54-66-04, 54-66-05, 54-66-06, 54-66-07, 54-66-08, 54-66-09, 54-66-10, 54-66-12, 54-66-18