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This spring, the North Dakota Supreme Court will take up a closely watched issue: term limits for state lawmakers. A public policy group sees the debate as another avenue for residents to reengage with civic matters.

The pending case stems from a 2022 ballot initiative approved by voters, imposing legislative term limits. The Republican-led legislature later approved placing a new question on this year's statewide ballot calling for a less restrictive approach in capping the years state lawmakers can serve. It led to a lawsuit now before the state's high court, challenging the push for new changes.

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Amy Jacobson, executive director of Prairie Action ND, said her group doesn't have a stance on term limits but the case is worth monitoring.

"It is concerning when the will of the people is being usurped by the elected politicians," Jacobson contended.

Lawmakers behind the new effort said there needs to be a smoother transition for term limits. Jacobson acknowledged it is reasonable to think voters feel shut out or turned off by today's political environment but added as people struggle with things like higher consumer prices, they might be more open to staying on top of developments like the case.

There are two other statewide ballot questions this year put forward by the legislature which would update rules for future citizen-initiated measures. Jacobson pointed out even though it is an off year for presidential elections, North Dakota voters could be motivated to learn more about what is at stake and vote on them. Based on her group's feedback, she noted the quality-of-life concerns appear to make policy debates seem less abstract to the typical voter.

"Now it's become very personal," Jacobson stressed. "I think that's why we're seeing more engagement by individuals."

Jacobson is helping lead an effort to get a separate question on this year's ballot which would guarantee free school meals to all K-12 students in North Dakota, regardless of their family's household income. A 2025 survey from the National Civic League found many Americans feel disconnected from local decision-making, but they remain eager to find ways to participate.