This bill proposes the creation of Chapter 16.1-08.2 of the North Dakota Century Code, which establishes new regulations for campaign disclosure statements and amends existing election laws. A significant requirement introduced is that candidates in school district elections must file a campaign contribution statement as outlined in the new chapter. The bill also details various election offenses and their penalties, including class A misdemeanors and class C felonies for violations that threaten election integrity. Additionally, it introduces new definitions for terms related to campaign financing, such as "affiliate," "association," and "expenditure," and clarifies what constitutes a contribution, including exceptions for bank loans and volunteer time.

Moreover, the legislation mandates that political committees and candidates register with the Secretary of State, providing detailed information about their contributions and expenditures within fifteen business days of any financial activity. It sets specific reporting requirements for campaign disclosure statements, including thresholds for contributions over $250 and supplemental statements for larger contributions exceeding $500. The bill also requires state political parties to manage separate accounts for convention-related activities and file postconvention financial statements. Furthermore, it emphasizes transparency in campaign financing by requiring corporations and similar entities to disclose detailed information about their contributions and establishes penalties for violations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and transparency in political financing and activities in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-08.1-02.3, 16.1-08.1-04.1, 16.1-08.1-06.1, 16.1-08.1-03.1
Adopted by the Senate State and Local Government Committee: 15.1-09-08, 15.1-09-19, 16.1-01-12, 16.1-10-04.1, 51-28-01
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15.1-09-08, 15.1-09-19, 16.1-01-12, 16.1-10-04.1, 51-28-01