Types of Ballot Measures

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In North Dakota, a ballot measure can be brought forth by the legislature or through a petition process initiated by the citizens of North Dakota.

Constitutional Measure

A constitutional measure is a change proposed by the North Dakota Legislature to the state’s constitution that is brought to citizens for consideration on the ballot. A constitutional measure must have a simple majority vote of the North Dakota Legislature to be placed on the ballot.

Constitutional Initiated Measure

A constitutional initiated measure is an effort brought by the citizens of North Dakota to amend the state’s constitution. Citizens must follow a petition process and receive signatures equal to 4% of the state’s population as reported by the last decennial census. Each initiative has a deadline of one year after it was approved to circulate. Completed petitions must be submitted at least 120 days prior to an election to be placed on the ballot.

Statutory Initiated Measure

A statutory initiated measure is an effort brought by the citizens of North Dakota to amend a statute. Citizens must follow a petition process and receive signatures equal to 2% of the state’s population as reported by the last decennial census. Each initiative has a deadline of one year after it was approved to circulate. Completed petitions must be submitted at least 120 days prior to an election to be placed on the ballot.

Referendum Measure

A referendum measure is an effort brought by the citizens of North Dakota to reject legislation pass by the North Dakota Legislature by a vote of the people. Legislation may only be referred within 90 days after it is filed with the Office of the Secretary of State.

Citizens must follow a petition process and receive signatures equal to 2% of the state’s population as reported by the last decennial census. Each initiative has a deadline of one year after it was approved to circulate. Completed petitions must be submitted at least 120 days prior to an election to be placed on the ballot.

History of Initiatives and Referendums in North Dakota

Learn more about the history of this process in North Dakota.