North Dakota Constitution Article IV - Legislative Branch
North Dakota Constitution – Article IV: Legislative Branch – Summary
Article IV of the North Dakota Constitution establishes the structure, powers, and procedures of the Legislative Branch of the state government. Below is a summary of its key components:
1. Structure of the Legislature
Bicameral Legislature: Composed of a Senate and a House of Representatives.
The number of legislators is determined by law, with one senator and two representatives elected from each legislative district.
2. Legislative Districts
The state is divided into legislative districts, established by law.
District boundaries are redrawn after each federal census to ensure equal representation.
3. Terms and Elections
Senators serve four-year terms.
Representatives serve four-year terms, but elections are staggered so not all are elected at once.
Elections are held in even-numbered years.
4. Qualifications for Legislators
Must be a qualified elector (i.e., voter) in North Dakota.
Must be a resident of the district they represent for at least one year prior to the election.
5. Legislative Sessions
Regular sessions are held biennially (every two years) and may not exceed 80 legislative days.
The governor may call special sessions.
6. Legislative Powers and Procedures
The legislature enacts laws, appropriates funds, levies taxes, and confirms appointments (in some cases).
Each house elects its own officers and sets rules for proceedings.
All bills must be read three times and pass both houses to become law.
7. Veto Power
The governor may veto legislation.
The legislature can override a veto with a two-thirds majority in both houses.
8. Initiative and Referendum
Citizens may propose laws (initiative) or reject laws passed by the legislature (referendum) through petition and statewide vote.
9. Legislative Ethics and Restrictions
Legislators must disclose conflicts of interest.
Cannot hold another state office during their legislative term.
Restrictions on receiving pay for work influenced by their position.
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