North Dakota Century Code Title 16.1. Elections § 16.1-14-14. Failure of petitioners to appear--Effect

If any petitioners fail to appear and prosecute their petition against the persons who have been made respondents thereto, according to the requirements of this chapter and of any rules made by the board, the board shall determine that they have failed, and shall cause the determination to be entered of record in such manner and form as it shall direct, and forthwith shall certify the determination to the governor and secretary of state.  The determination is a final and conclusive bar to the claim of the petitioners against such respondents as fully and completely as if the claim had been heard and determined on its merits, and the governor shall issue certificates of election as provided in section 16.1-14-13.