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Bill

SB 2156

A BILL for an Act to create and enact chapter 16.1-08.2 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to campaign disclosure statements; to amend and reenact sections 15.1-09-08, 15.1-09-19, 16.1-01-12, and 16.1-10-04.1, and subdivision f of subsection 8 of section 51-28-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to campaign disclosure statements; to repeal chapter 16.1-08.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to campaign disclosure statements; to provide a penalty; to provide for application; and to provide an effective date.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Sean Cleary

SB 2156 repeals and replaces North Dakota's campaign disclosure statute while amending related campaign finance reporting requirements across multiple state agencies.

Second reading, failed to pass, yeas 0 nays 47
0
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Bill Summary · SB 2156

Legislative bill overview

SB 2156 would overhaul North Dakota's campaign disclosure requirements by repealing the existing campaign disclosure statute (Chapter 16.1-08.1) and replacing it with a new comprehensive framework (Chapter 16.1-08.2). The bill also amends related statutes governing campaign finance reporting across multiple chapters of state law.

Why is this important

Campaign disclosure laws directly affect political transparency and voters' ability to identify funding sources behind candidates and ballot measures. Changes to these requirements impact how much information the public receives about who is financing political activity, which is fundamental to democratic accountability and informed voting decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of changes unclear from title alone: The bill's technical nature makes it difficult to assess whether it expands or restricts disclosure requirements without reviewing the full text—a common concern when statutes are completely repealed and replaced
  • Multiple agency coordination: Amendments to sections across education (15.1-09), ethics (16.1-01, 16.1-10), and tax law (51-28) suggest complex implementation across different state departments
  • Legislative disagreement on substance: The bill passed the Senate as amended (85-5) but failed on second reading in the House (0-47), indicating significant chamber disagreement over the bill's content or approach

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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