This bill seeks to improve transparency in political funding by instituting new reporting requirements that identify the ultimate sources of funds used in political expenditures. It introduces definitions such as "candidate," "covered person," and "traceable funds," while clarifying existing definitions related to political financing. Covered persons are required to maintain detailed records of contributions over $200, including the identities of ultimate sources and intermediaries, and must inform contributors about the potential use of their funds. The bill also establishes penalties for non-compliance, categorizing evasion of reporting requirements as a class A misdemeanor, and mandates that covered persons file statements with the Secretary of State within ten days of disbursing traceable funds. The Secretary of State is responsible for making this information publicly accessible in a searchable format.

Additionally, the bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to allow any individual to file a complaint with the Secretary of State regarding potential violations, which must be investigated, and provides a legal recourse for complainants if no action is taken within a specified timeframe. It also imposes fines for confirmed violations based on their monetary value. New requirements for political advertisements are introduced, mandating the disclosure of funding sources, including the names of individuals or political parties and the top three donors. The bill repeals previous sections related to these issues, streamlining the legal framework for political contributions and expenditures while enhancing transparency and protecting taxpayer rights.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-08.1-01, 16.1-10-04.1, 16.1-08.1-08