North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SB2226

Introduced
1/12/23  
Refer
1/12/23  
Refer
1/18/23  
Report DNP
2/17/23  
Engrossed
2/22/23  
Refer
2/22/23  

Caption

The required form for measures to amend the constitution and the manner of placing the measures on ballots.

Impact

If enacted, SB2226 would modify existing laws related to how constitutional amendments are proposed and subsequently voted on, thereby affecting the state’s legislative processes surrounding constitutional matters. By clarifying the procedural requirements, it aims to simplify the steps necessary for amending the state constitution, which could potentially lead to a more streamlined process for future amendments. This could encourage greater civic engagement as citizens may find it easier to understand and participate in the amendment process.

Summary

Senate Bill 2226 is focused on delineating the processes required for measures aimed at amending the state constitution, emphasizing the proper form and procedure for placing such measures on electoral ballots. The bill seeks to enhance clarity and uniformity within the legislative framework governing constitutional amendments, ensuring that all relevant requirements are met before an amendment can be presented to voters. Supporters of SB2226 argue that this will lead to a more efficient and transparent amendment process, while also preventing potential confusion regarding ballot measures.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB2226 involve concerns about the implications of standardizing the amendment processes. Critics argue that imposing uniform requirements could hinder local efforts to initiate changes that reflect specific regional needs or priorities. Additionally, there are fears that the bill could lead to voter fatigue, as the additional procedures might complicate ballot measures. Some lawmakers have expressed apprehensions that the bill might unintentionally restrict the democratic process by making it more cumbersome for citizens to pursue constitutional changes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SJR5

Constitutional amendment; increasing percentage of vote required to pass certain measures.

ND SJR5

Constitutional amendment; increasing percentage of vote required to pass certain measures.

ND SB91

Revise the requirements for a petition to initiate a measure or constitutional amendment or to refer a law.

ND HB1184

Amend the deadline for filing a petition to initiate a measure or constitutional amendment.

ND SB569

An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution Concerning Ballot Titles Of Proposed Measures; And Amending The Arkansas Constitution Under The Authority Of Arkansas Constitution, Article 5, Section 1.

ND HB14

Referendum measures; authorize general laws and constitutional amendments to be initiated through public petition process

ND HB561

Referendum measures; authorize general laws and constitutional amendments to be initiated through public petition process

ND SB1180

Relating to ballot measures.

ND HB3393

Relating to measures on the ballot.

ND HB818

Ban foreign funding for ballot measures

Similar Bills

LA HB472

(Constitutional Amendment) Revises Article VII of the Constitution of La. (OR -$139,000,000 GF RV See Note)

NJ ACR123

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.

NJ SCR75

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.

NJ SCR43

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LA HB244

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LA HB678

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LA HB473

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HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.