This bill provides funding for the North Dakota Ethics Commission, appropriating $1,368,016 from the general fund for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. The funding will cover operational expenses, including enhancements and one-time costs for a case management system and office furniture. It introduces new provisions that grant immunity to legislative assembly members from criminal prosecution when they follow conflict of interest rules during voting and establishes an affirmative defense for those who rely on informal advice from ethics commission staff.

Additionally, the bill amends existing sections of the North Dakota Century Code to clarify definitions and procedures related to the ethics commission's investigation and complaint processes. Notable changes include replacing the term "accused individual" with "respondent" and outlining the commission's authority to manage complaints and informal resolutions. The bill mandates the commission to adopt rules for timely complaint management and requires an annual report on complaints and actions taken, which must be publicly available. It also emphasizes the confidentiality of complainants and allows the commission to coordinate with law enforcement in cases of alleged criminal conduct. Certain sections of the bill are designated as emergency measures, highlighting their immediate significance.

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