This bill introduces a new section to chapter 16.1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, establishing a formal procedure for district political parties to endorse candidates for primary elections. It allows district organizations to hold endorsing caucuses, after which the district chairman must sign and forward a certificate of endorsement to the state party chairman. The state party chairman is then required to wait at least seven days before forwarding the certificate to the secretary of state, during which time complaints regarding the caucus process can be filed and investigated by an inquiry committee. If the committee finds merit in a complaint, it may delay the candidate's placement on the ballot until the investigation is complete.

Additionally, the bill amends sections 16.1-11-06 and 16.1-11-10, clarifying the requirements for candidates to appear on primary election ballots. It specifies that if a political party issues a certificate of endorsement for a candidate, no other candidate from that party may appear on the ballot for the same office. The amendments also detail the necessary signatures and information required for nominating petitions and certificates of endorsement, ensuring that candidates who do not receive endorsements can still run as independents in general or special elections.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-11-06, 16.1-11-10
Adopted by the House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee: 16.1-11-06, 16.1-11-10
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 16.1-11-06, 16.1-11-10