The North Dakota Legislature's House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee made significant strides in updating the Clery bill during their meeting on April 11, 2025. The committee, led by Representative Louser and supported by the Secretary of State's office, is working to streamline existing laws and enhance transparency in campaign finance.

A key focus of the meeting was the transition of provisions from Chapter 16.1-8.1 to a new Chapter 16.1-8.2. This restructuring aims to consolidate existing regulations while incorporating necessary technical corrections. Representative Steiner highlighted that while the bill may appear new, it largely retains existing laws with some updates to improve clarity and functionality.

One notable amendment discussed was the addition of two new expenditure categories: political donations and volunteer appreciation. This change is particularly relevant for legislators nearing the end of their terms, allowing them to allocate remaining campaign funds to support other candidates or to host appreciation events for their volunteers. This flexibility is expected to enhance transparency regarding how campaign funds are utilized, providing clearer insights to the public.

The committee's collaborative efforts with the Secretary of State's office, which is currently upgrading its software, are crucial for the successful implementation of these changes. The meeting underscored the importance of adapting legislative frameworks to better serve the needs of both lawmakers and constituents.

As the committee moves forward, these updates to the Clery bill are poised to foster greater accountability in campaign finance, ultimately benefiting the democratic process in North Dakota.