This bill proposes several amendments and new provisions to the North Dakota Century Code concerning immunity and defenses for individuals involved in legislative actions, particularly regarding voting and ethics commission matters. It amends Section 12.1-13-02 to clarify that an individual, specifically a public servant, can be guilty of a class A misdemeanor for speculating or wagering on official actions. However, it introduces immunity from prosecution for individuals who are members of the legislative assembly when they vote on measures, provided they disclose any potential conflicts of interest as required by Section 54-66-18. Additionally, the bill creates new sections in chapters 54-03 and 54-66, establishing guidelines for immunity related to voting and the process for handling alleged violations by the ethics commission.

The bill also amends existing sections to enhance the appeals process for individuals accused by the ethics commission, clarifying that appeals can be made to various district courts. It revises the confidentiality provisions regarding information submitted to the commission, ensuring that certain records remain confidential unless specific conditions are met. Furthermore, it mandates that each legislative assembly adopt conflict of interest rules that require members to disclose potential conflicts, with the stipulation that if their rules are as stringent as those of the ethics commission, the latter's disclosure process may not apply. The bill is declared an emergency measure, indicating its immediate importance.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-13-02, 54-66-10, 54-66-12, 54-66-18
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Lefor: 12.1-13-02, 54-66-10, 54-66-12, 54-66-18
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 12.1-13-02, 54-66-10, 54-66-12, 54-66-18