NC S68

Repeals previous statutes establishing the State Board of Elections and State Ethics Commission, consolidating their functions into a new Bipartisan State Board of Elections and Ethics Enforcement effective May 1, 2017.

Establishes an eight-member State Board with four members from each of the two political parties with highest voter registration, appointed by the Governor from lists submitted by state party chairs, serving two-year terms beginning May 1 of odd-numbered years.

Requires five of eight members to vote on board actions; restricts board members from making political contributions, registering as lobbyists, making public statements on candidates or referenda, or soliciting contributions.

Transfers authority for elections administration, campaign finance regulation, ethics enforcement, and lobbying registration from the State Board of Elections, State Ethics Commission, and Secretary of State to the new consolidated board.

Recodifies Chapters 138A (ethics), 120C (lobbying), and 163 (elections) into a new Chapter 163A titled "Elections and Ethics Enforcement Act," with the Revisor of Statutes authorized to reorganize provisions while updating references and maintaining statutory order.