2024 Ballot measures

Constitutional Measure 1: Updating terminology describing public institutions

This measure seeks to update the language used in the state’s legal references to public institutions, modernizing terms to better reflect current understandings and respectful language.  

Key proposed changes include:

• Renaming the "school for the deaf and dumb of North Dakota" to the "school for the deaf and hard of hearing." 

• Changing the term "state hospital for the insane" to "state hospital for the care of individuals with mental illness." 

• Updating "institution for the feebleminded" to "facility for individuals with developmental disabilities." 

• Renaming "state hospital for the mentally ill" to "state hospital for the care of individuals with mental illness." 

Constitutional Measure 2: Constitutional Initiated Measure Amendments

This measure proposes changes to the process for approving initiated constitutional amendments to the state constitution.  

Key proposed changes include:

• Limiting each petition to a single subject to streamline clarity and focus.  

• Requiring the measure to pass in both the primary and general elections to be adopted. 

• Increasing the signature requirement for proposed amendments from 4% to 5% of the state’s resident population, raising the threshold for eligibility. 

Constitutional Measure 3: Spending and Transfers from the Legacy Fund

Measure 3 proposes two significant changes to the management and use of North Dakota's Legacy Fund, a $10 billion trust established in 2010 that receives 30% of the state’s oil and gas production tax revenues. 

• Reduction in Principal Spending Cap: The measure would reduce the state’s allowable spending from the fund's principal, per biennium, from 15% to 5%. Based on recent figures, this would lower the accessible amount from approximately $1.5 billion to about $510 million every two years. 

• Investment of Fund Earnings: The measure would change how earnings from the Legacy Fund are used. Currently, revenue generated by the fund is transferred to the general fund every odd-numbered year. This amendment would allow earnings to remain in the Legacy Fund for reinvestment, enhancing the fund’s potential to grow and provide longer-term benefits. 

These adjustments aim to preserve and grow the Legacy Fund, ensuring sustainable support for the state's future financial needs. 

Constitutional Measure 4: Eliminating State Property Taxes

Initiated Measure 4 proposes an amendment to the North Dakota Constitution to eliminate state property taxes. Under this measure, communities would receive state funding to match their 2024 property tax revenues, effectively substituting local property taxes with state funding. 

However, this shift would result in a $3.15 billion budget shortfall in the state's 2025-2027 biennial budget, raising significant concerns about potential impacts on essential state-funded services and infrastructure. 

Constitutional Measure 5: Adult Cannabis Legalization

Initiated Measure 5 proposes amending North Dakota state law to legalize cannabis for adults aged 21 and older, permitting cultivation, processing and distribution within regulated limits. The measure allows for up to 18 licensed retail cannabis stores and seven licensed growers statewide. 

Legalization is projected to generate $10.2 million in state revenue and incur $8.3 million in implementation expenses for the 2025-2027 biennium. However, the measure may also lead to additional, currently unquantified costs related to behavioral health and social impacts. 

City of Fargo Measure 1: FARGODOME Sales Tax Increase 

This measure proposes a one-quarter cent sales tax increase in Fargo for 20 years. The revenue generated would fund renovations and ongoing capital improvements, maintenance and operations for the FARGODOME. Planned enhancements focus on increasing accessibility, expanding patron amenities and improving operational efficiencies to enhance the venue’s long-term functionality. 

City of Fargo Measure 2: Lodging Tax Increase 

This measure proposes a 3% increase in the lodging tax for 25 years. The revenue generated from this tax will be allocated for the construction, maintenance, and operations of a new Convention Center in Fargo. The city plans to establish a public-private partnership to facilitate the development of this convention center, aiming to enhance the city’s appeal as a destination for events and conferences. 

City of Fargo Measure 3: Public Safety Sales Tax Increase 

This measure proposes a one-quarter cent increase in the sales tax for 20 years. The revenue generated will be dedicated solely to enhancing Fargo's fire and police operations, including funding for essential equipment and facility improvements. 

Constitutional Amendment 1: Renewal of the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund 

This amendment seeks to reauthorize the allocation of 40% of the revenue generated from the state-operated lottery to the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund until December 31, 2050. Additionally, it proposes increasing the annual spending limit from 5.5% to 7.0% of the fund’s market value, with an additional 1.5% specifically designated for a grant program aimed at serving underrepresented communities. 

If the amendment does not pass, these funds will be redirected to the general fund and distributed according to legislative priorities. This amendment is designed to enhance funding for environmental and natural resource initiatives while promoting equity in access to these resources. 

Dilworth City Question: Sales Tax Increase for Community Center 

This proposal seeks to implement a one-quarter cent increase in the sales tax for 20 years. The revenue generated from this tax will be dedicated to the construction of a new community and recreational center in Dilworth, providing residents with enhanced facilities for recreation, events and community gatherings. 

This initiative aims to foster community engagement and promote a vibrant local environment through improved recreational opportunities. 

Moorhead School District Question: Increase in Tax Levy 

This proposal seeks a $43 million capital project levy to fund critical enhancements within the Moorhead School District. The levy will support curriculum improvements, facility upgrades, technology investments, and updates to transportation services. 

By investing in these areas, the district aims to provide students with a high-quality educational experience and ensure that facilities and resources meet modern standards.