The House Government and Veterans Affairs Committee of the North Dakota Legislature convened on April 9, 2025, to discuss campaign finance enforcement and the implications of non-compliance among candidates. The meeting focused on the current mechanisms for filing campaign finance reports and the penalties for failing to do so.

The discussion began with concerns about the effectiveness of existing fines for candidates who do not file their reports. Members expressed frustration over the perceived leniency of the current system, which allows individuals to avoid accountability. One member suggested that the public nature of non-compliance, as listed on the Secretary of State's website, serves as a deterrent, but others argued that the current fines are insufficient to encourage compliance.

Several committee members debated the merits of increasing fines or implementing a system of recurring penalties for late filings. Suggestions included a $200 fine every three months for non-filers, which would create a financial incentive to comply with reporting requirements. The idea of introducing a misdemeanor charge for repeated offenders was also discussed, although some members expressed hesitation about the potential legal implications and enforcement challenges.

The committee acknowledged that while there are only a few candidates who consistently fail to file, the issue of compliance is significant enough to warrant a reevaluation of the current penalties. It was noted that many late filings stem from genuine mistakes, such as changes in campaign leadership or miscommunication regarding filing requirements.

Ultimately, the committee agreed that transparency is crucial, and the public should be informed about candidates who do not adhere to campaign finance laws. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a more robust enforcement mechanism, potentially involving increased fines or a structured penalty system, to ensure compliance and uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Further discussions and potential legislative proposals are expected in future meetings.