Requiring each resolution adopted by the legislative assembly proposing a constitutional amendment and each initiative petition and measure proposing a constitutional amendment to be comprised of a single subject.
Impact
If enacted, this resolution would have significant implications for how constitutional amendments are proposed and processed in North Dakota. It would require that each initiative or legislative proposal focuses solely on one issue, potentially streamlining the voting process and encouraging more straightforward civic engagement with proposed changes. The requirement may also prevent the inclusion of unrelated measures within a single amendment, which could lead to more informed decision-making among the electorate.
Summary
SCR4007 is a concurrent resolution aimed at amending sections of the North Dakota Constitution. Specifically, it mandates that any resolution proposing a constitutional amendment, whether adopted by the legislative assembly or through an initiative petition, must address a single subject only. This legal requirement is designed to ensure clarity and specificity in proposed amendments, thereby limiting the scope of each initiative and reducing the potential for confusion among voters about what they are being asked to approve or reject.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR4007 appears to be largely supportive among legislators advocating for clearer governance and greater voter comprehension. Proponents see the single subject requirement as an important safeguard for the democratic process, enhancing transparency and accountability. However, some may express concerns that such stipulations could limit the ability of citizen-led initiatives to address multifaceted issues that are often interconnected.
Contention
Notably, the discussion surrounding SCR4007 may reveal a split in opinion about the benefits and drawbacks of imposing such a standard. Critics of the resolution might argue that the requirement could hinder comprehensive reform efforts that benefit from broader approaches to policy-making. There may also be debate on who will ultimately determine what constitutes a single subject, raising questions about the role of the secretary of state in approving initiative petitions for circulation.
The process for approving initiated constitutional amendments, the requirement of a single subject for each petition and measure, the individuals able to circulate a petition, and the requirement that all ballot measures must be voted on at the primary and general election.
The subject matter of initiated measures and constitutional amendments, the manner of signing petitions, the establishment of an electronic signature gathering system by the secretary of state, and the threshold for placing a measure on the ballot; to provide for application; and to provide an effective date.
Prohibiting the legislative assembly from proposing certain amendments to article XV of the Constitution of North Dakota; and to provide for application.
A concurrent resolution to rescind all extant applications by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly to call a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution, under Article V of the United States Constitution.
Requiring the governor to call a special session of the legislative assembly to consider a veto if the governor vetoes a bill or item when the legislative assembly is not in session.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.