The bill amends sections 16.1-09-02, 16.1-09-03, and 16.1-09-05 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the requirements for candidates and appointees to file a statement of interests with the secretary of state. Key changes include the introduction of a provision that allows presidential and vice presidential candidates to file either a statement of interests or a federal personal disclosure statement during election years. Additionally, candidates who have filed a statement for a primary election are not required to refile for the subsequent general election. The bill also establishes that a candidate's name cannot be included on the ballot if there are errors in their statement that are not corrected by a specified deadline.

Further amendments enhance the content of the statement of interests, requiring disclosures related to financial interests and business dealings, particularly those involving political subdivisions or state agencies. The secretary of state is tasked with publishing all statements on a dedicated website and ensuring that filed statements are preserved for the duration of the elected or appointed term, with specific provisions for non-elected candidates. The bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in the electoral process by ensuring that candidates and appointees disclose relevant financial information.

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