North Dakota Lawmakers Seek Supreme Court Approval for Term Limit Vote

Legislators file brief asking court to allow residents to vote on amending state constitution

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The North Dakota Legislative Assembly has filed a brief with the state's Supreme Court requesting permission to allow residents to vote on amending the state constitution's term limits. Two former legislators have filed a lawsuit challenging the proposed amendment, claiming it violates state law. Attorneys for the legislature argue that the people's right to vote on such proposals was established at statehood and remains an integral part of the constitution.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate over term limits and the balance of power between the legislative branch and the courts in North Dakota. The outcome could have significant implications for the state's political landscape and the ability of residents to directly shape the constitution through the voting process.

The details

Senate Concurrent Resolution 4008 would amend the North Dakota Constitution to change the existing term limits. Two former legislators, Oley Larson and Terry Bjerke, have filed a lawsuit seeking to block the resolution, arguing it is against state law. Attorneys for the legislature have countered that the people's right to vote on such proposals is a fundamental part of the state's constitution.

  • The brief was filed with the North Dakota Supreme Court on March 10, 2026.

The players

North Dakota Legislative Assembly

The legislative branch of the government of North Dakota, responsible for passing laws and amending the state constitution.

Oley Larson

A former North Dakota legislator who has filed a lawsuit challenging the proposed amendment to the state's term limits.

Terry Bjerke

A Grand Forks County Commissioner and former North Dakota legislator who has joined Larson in filing a lawsuit against the proposed term limit amendment.

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What’s next

No hearings have been set in the case yet, but the North Dakota Supreme Court will need to decide whether to allow the proposed amendment to the state's term limits to go to a vote.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate over term limits and the balance of power between the legislative and judicial branches in North Dakota. The outcome could have significant implications for the state's political landscape and the ability of residents to directly shape the constitution through the voting process.