In a joint statement released Monday, Bishop John Folda of the Diocese of Fargo and Bishop David Kagan of the Diocese of Bismarck publicly endorsed North Dakota Constitutional Measure 1, which will appear on the November 3 ballot. The bishops argue that raising the amendment threshold from a simple majority to 60% of voters will preserve the stability of the state constitution and ensure broader consensus before any permanent changes are made.
Why the bishops support a higher threshold
The bishops noted that the North Dakota Constitution has been amended 168 times since its ratification in 1889, a far higher frequency than the 27 amendments to the U.S. Constitution since 1789. They contend that a 60% supermajority would not prevent legitimate amendments, but would require that any change enjoy wider support among North Dakotans, thereby protecting the document from fleeting political swings.
Protecting existing abortion restrictions
In their statement, the bishops specifically referenced the measure’s relevance to North Dakota’s existing abortion restrictions. They warned that a lower threshold could make it easier for national organizations to push abortion‑related constitutional amendments through a simple‑majority vote, as has occurred in several other states since 2022. By requiring a higher level of voter agreement, Measure 1 would act as a safeguard for the state’s current abortion laws.
Context of similar efforts elsewhere
The bishops cited recent examples, including a 2024 Florida amendment that received a majority of votes but fell short of the state’s 60% requirement and therefore did not pass. They argue that North Dakota’s proposed change would prevent similar outcomes where outside groups influence state policy through narrow majorities.
What Measure 1 does not change
Importantly, the bishops clarified that Measure 1 would leave the threshold for ordinary statutory ballot measures untouched; those would continue to be decided by a simple majority. The measure is solely aimed at constitutional amendments, which have a lasting impact on the legal framework of the state.
Call to action
Both bishops concluded by urging North Dakotans to vote “yes” on Measure 1, emphasizing that a higher amendment threshold aligns with the Catholic principle of protecting the common good and ensuring that any fundamental changes reflect a broad, enduring consensus among the people.
About Measure 1
Measure 1 is a citizen‑initiated constitutional amendment that will be placed on the November 3 ballot. If approved, it will amend the North Dakota Constitution to require a 60% supermajority of voters for any future constitutional amendment, while leaving statutory ballot measures subject to a simple majority.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
