This bill amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code to update regulations concerning the central voter file and primary election ballots. Key changes include a requirement for the central voter file to maintain six years of voting history, which includes the political party associated with a ballot. The bill introduces a provision allowing voters to indicate their desired primary election ballot on absentee ballot applications. It also clarifies that voter lists and reports can be made available for election-related purposes while ensuring that certain records remain exempt from public access. Additionally, the structure of primary election ballots is modified to require separate ballots for each political party, with voters permitted to select candidates from only one party.

Moreover, the bill establishes procedures for no-party primary ballots, which will be distinct from party ballots, allowing candidates to be listed without party designations. It mandates that the no-party primary ballot clearly indicate its separation from party ballots and provides instructions for voters regarding the number of candidates they may vote for. The bill outlines the criteria for political organizations to access the primary ballot, including a petition signed by at least 7,000 qualified electors, and ensures that any political party receiving at least five percent of the vote in previous elections is entitled to a separate section on the primary ballot. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the integrity, clarity, and accessibility of the electoral process in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-02-12, 16.1-02-15, 16.1-03-21, 16.1-07-05, 16.1-07-06, 16.1-11-10, 16.1-11-12, 16.1-11-21, 16.1-11-22, 16.1-11-24, 16.1-11-26, 16.1-11-29, 16.1-11-30, 16.1-11-39, 16.1-11-40, 16.1-11.1-02, 16.1-12-02