This bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to the filing of statements of interests by candidates for elective office and appointees. Key changes include the requirement for every candidate to file a statement of interests or a federal personal disclosure statement during presidential election years. Additionally, candidates who have filed a statement in a primary election are not required to refile for the general election. The bill also introduces a provision that prohibits a candidate's name from appearing on the ballot if there is an error in their statement that is not corrected by a specified deadline. Furthermore, individuals holding office, except for federal officeholders, must submit an annual statement of interests by January 31.

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 business involved. Additionally, the secretary of state is tasked with publishing all statements filed on a dedicated website and ensuring that these statements are preserved for the duration of the officeholder's 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