The debate over term limits in North Dakota continued last week as legislators, citizens, and outside proponents discussed the possibility of changing the current law. A hearing on Senate Concurrent Resolution 4008 raised questions about the constitutionality of forcing another statewide vote on the issue. The resolution aims to allow lawmakers to serve up to 16 years in office without having to switch chambers.
However, the citizen-initiated measure passed in 2022 states that any changes to the term limits law must also be done through a citizen-initiated measure. Legislators on the committee expressed concerns that term limits would weaken the state Legislature by limiting lawmakers’ experience.
Another bill approved by the House, House Bill 1300, addresses the issue of term limits for lawmakers elected in 2020 and reelected in 2024. The bill seeks to clarify confusion about when the clock on term limits should start for these lawmakers. In addition to term limits for legislators, there is also a push for constitutional ballot measures to be limited to a single subject, with Senate Concurrent Resolution 4007 proposing this change.
Former Governor Ed Schafer spoke in favor of the single-subject proposal, highlighting the need for clarity in ballot measures. Despite some opposition, the committee gave the bill a do-pass recommendation. The League of Women Voters of North Dakota expressed concerns about the bill’s language and the potential impact on voter turnout in primary elections. Overall, the debate over term limits and ballot measures in North Dakota continues to be a contentious issue.
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