North Dakota is moving to put all elections under one rulebook — the state’s. A new bill advancing through the Legislature would prevent cities and counties, even those with home rule authority, from setting election laws that conflict with state standards. Supporters say it’s about protecting consistency and trust in elections. Critics argue it sidelines local voters and long-standing local practices. The debate boils down to a familiar question: where should the power to shape elections live — close to home or at the state capitol? Grant Coursey with Bismarck Tribune has the full story.
HB 1307
A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact sections 11-09.1-04 and 40-05.1-05 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to supersession of state laws in home rule counties and cities.
House Sponsors: Kasper (R, District 46), Headland (R, District 29), Kempenich (R, District 39), Koppelman (R, District 16), Louser (R, District 5), Motschenbacher (R, District 47), D. Ruby (R, District 38), Steiner (R, District 37),
Senate Sponsors: Hogue (R, District 38), Myrdal (R, District 19), Paulson (R, District 3),
