North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SB2280

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  

Caption

The form of the primary election ballot.

Impact

If passed, SB2280 would have significant implications for state electoral laws, particularly concerning how elections are conducted. The adjustments to ballot formats would necessitate changes in election administration procedures, training for election officials, and potentially the procurement of new voting technology. These alterations aim to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process while ensuring that all voters can navigate the ballot with relative ease, enhancing overall voter engagement.

Summary

SB2280 addresses the regulations and format of the primary election ballot in the state, aiming to streamline the voting process and enhance clarity for voters. The bill proposes specific changes in how the ballots are presented to ensure that they are user-friendly and easily understandable. Proponents argue that these changes will help reduce voter confusion and consequently, increase participation in the electoral process. The bill is seen as an essential step towards modernizing the electoral framework to adapt to contemporary voting practices.

Contention

However, the bill has faced opposition concerning its potential unintended consequences. Critics argue that while the intent to simplify ballots is commendable, the actual implementation of the proposed changes may introduce new complexities and disparities across different regions in the state. Additionally, some members of the legislature express concerns that these modifications could disproportionately affect certain demographic groups less familiar with the changes, potentially disenfranchising some voters. The discussion around SB2280 highlights the delicate balancing act between safeguarding electoral integrity and ensuring equitable access to the voting process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SB2178

Data stored in the central voter file and primary election ballots.

ND A5116

Revises design of primary election ballots and certain primary election procedures; provides for ballots to be arranged by office block; removes State committee members from primary process; requires reporting on primary elections by Division of Elections.

ND AB292

Primary elections: ballots.

ND S4142

Revises design of primary election ballots and certain primary election procedures; provides for ballots to be arranged by office block; removes State committee members from primary process; requires reporting on primary elections by Division of Elections.

ND SB0201

Closed primary elections.

ND S0137

An act relating to an option to vote "None of these candidates" on primary and general election ballots

ND HB196

Absentee ballots; authorize executive committees to process for primary elections.

ND SB2158

ELEC CD-OPEN PRIMARY ELECTIONS

ND HB320

Absentee ballots; authorize executive committees to process for primary elections.

ND AB1219

Elections: ballots.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.