Initiative Petition - North Dakota

Initiative Petition is a legal document that was released by the North Dakota Secretary of State - a government authority operating within North Dakota.

FAQ

Q: What is an initiative petition?
A: An initiative petition is a process that allows citizens to propose new laws or changes to existing laws through a petition.

Q: How does the initiative petition process work in North Dakota?
A: In North Dakota, the initiative petition process begins with drafting a petition and obtaining the necessary number of signatures from registered voters. Once the signatures are verified, the proposal is placed on the ballot for voters to decide.

Q: How many signatures are required for an initiative petition in North Dakota?
A: In North Dakota, the number of signatures required for an initiative petition is 4% of the total votes cast for the office of Secretary of State in the most recent general election.

Q: What types of issues can be addressed through an initiative petition in North Dakota?
A: Almost any issue can be addressed through an initiative petition in North Dakota, as long as it is not prohibited by the state constitution or laws.

Q: Can the legislature alter or reject an initiative passed by voters through the petition process?
A: The North Dakota Legislature cannot alter or reject an initiative passed by voters through the petition process, unless the state constitution provides for a specific method of alteration or rejection.

Q: Is there a time limit to collect the required signatures for an initiative petition in North Dakota?
A: Yes, there is a time limit to collect the required signatures for an initiative petition in North Dakota. The deadline is 90 days before the general election in which the proposal is to be voted on.

Q: Can initiative petitions be challenged or appealed in North Dakota?
A: Yes, initiative petitions can be challenged or appealed in North Dakota. The state Supreme Court has the authority to review challenges and make final decisions regarding the validity of the petition.

Q: Are there any restrictions on who can sign an initiative petition in North Dakota?
A: In North Dakota, only registered voters who meet the eligibility requirements can sign an initiative petition.

Q: What happens if an initiative petition is successful and approved by voters?
A: If an initiative petition is successful and approved by voters, the proposed law or change to existing law goes into effect as specified in the petition.

Q: Can an initiative petition be amended or repealed after it is approved?
A: An initiative petition can only be amended or repealed by another initiative petition, unless the state constitution provides for a specific process for amending or repealing the petition.