ND HB1446

Eliminates the ability of political parties to place candidates on primary election ballots through certificates of endorsement signed by party chairmen, requiring all candidates to instead qualify through nominating petitions with voter signatures.

Increases the minimum signature requirement for statewide office candidates from 300 signatures (or 3% of prior vote) to 2,000 signatures on nominating petitions.

Allows state parties to appoint candidates for statewide offices only if no candidate files a nominating petition by 71 days before the primary election, with the appointee required to file notification with the secretary of state.

Repeals sections governing party endorsement processes, certificates of endorsement requirements, and minimum vote thresholds required at primary elections for nomination.

Retains a certificate of endorsement process specifically for special elections to fill U.S. House vacancies caused by catastrophic circumstances affecting 100 or more representatives nationwide.