The bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code regarding the filing of statements of interests by candidates for elective office and appointees. It establishes that every candidate must sign and file a statement of interests, with specific provisions for presidential and vice-presidential candidates who can alternatively submit a federal personal disclosure statement. Additionally, candidates who have filed a statement for a primary election are not required to refile for the general election. The bill also introduces a requirement for individuals holding office, except federal officeholders, to submit an annual statement of interests by January 31, and it stipulates that a candidate's name cannot be included on the ballot if there are errors in their statement that are not corrected in a timely manner.

Furthermore, the bill expands the contents of the statement of interests to include details about financial interests and relationships that may be affected by legislative actions. Notably, it requires disclosure of any sales of goods or services exceeding $5,000 to political subdivisions or state agencies by the candidate or their spouse if they have a significant ownership interest in the related business. The secretary of state is tasked with accepting and filing these statements, making them available for public inspection, and publishing them on a dedicated website. The preservation of these statements is also addressed, ensuring they are kept for the duration of the office term or for one year for candidates who are not elected or appointed.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 16.1-09-02, 16.1-09-03, 16.1-09-05
Adopted by the House Political Subdivisions Committee: 16.1-09-02, 16.1-09-03, 16.1-09-05
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 16.1-09-02, 16.1-09-03, 16.1-09-05
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Roers: 16.1-09-02, 16.1-09-03, 16.1-09-05
Enrollment: 16.1-09-02, 16.1-09-03, 16.1-09-05