North Dakota Constitution Article V - Executive Branch
North Dakota Constitution – Article V: Executive Branch – Summary
Article V of the North Dakota Constitution outlines the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the executive branch of the state government. Here's a concise summary of its main provisions:
1. Executive Power and Officers
The executive power of the state is vested in a Governor, who is the chief executive.
The Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, Insurance Commissioner, and Attorney General are also elected executive officers.
2. Governor
The Governor enforces state laws, can call the Legislative Assembly into special session, and may grant pardons and reprieves.
The Governor serves a 4-year term and may be re-elected.
Must be a qualified elector, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of North Dakota for five years preceding the election.
3. Lieutenant Governor
Elected jointly with the Governor on the same ticket.
Presides over the Senate but votes only in case of a tie.
Assumes the office of Governor if it becomes vacant.
4. Succession and Vacancy
If the Governor's office becomes vacant (due to death, resignation, or removal), the Lieutenant Governor becomes Governor.
Provisions are made for succession down the line if both Governor and Lieutenant Governor are unavailable.
5. Duties of Other Officers
Secretary of State handles official documents, records, and the state seal.
State Treasurer manages state funds.
State Auditor audits public accounts.
Attorney General is the chief legal officer of the state.
6. Appointments and Commissions
The Governor appoints officials (some with Senate confirmation) and may remove certain appointed officers.
A cabinet-style administration is not mandated, but the Governor has the authority to organize the executive departments.
7. Boards and Commissions
Provisions for state boards and commissions may be created or modified by law.
The Industrial Commission, composed of key executive officers, oversees certain state-owned enterprises and industries.
8. Impeachment and Removal
Executive officers can be removed by impeachment or other legal processes for misconduct or malfeasance.
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