Legislative Momentum: Insights, Power Dynamics, and Your Voice
As January comes to a close, the Legislature is hitting its stride. Committee hearings and floor debates have offered an interesting glimpse into how the public, state administration, lobbyists, and legislators approach key issues. The dynamic is clear: lobbyists and the administration are vying for control, while legislators and the public navigate where the balance of power should land. One thing is certain—public input makes a difference!
We value your feedback on how we share updates with you. After reviewing the latest data below, we encourage you to share your thoughts with us. Your input will remain confidential unless you request otherwise. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Legislative Overview: January 29-31, 2025
Summary of Sessions in the House & Senate January 29th – 31st are as follows:
27 Senate Bills Passed and awaiting House Response: SB2013, SB2023, SB2032, SB2088, SB2120, SB2137, SB2138, SB2144, SB2164, SB2166, SB2186, SB2199, SB2204, SB2224, SB2233, SB2250, SB2257, SB2273, SB2275, SB2277, SB2278, SB2288, SB2293, SB2310, SB2329, SB2334. SCR4002 Adopted. Those that failed include: SB2150, SB2155, SB2181, SB2184, SB2202, SB2203, SB2220, SB2264. Bill Withdrawn includes : SB2304.
25 House Bills Passed and awaiting Senate Response: HB11026, HB1063, HB1089, HB1147, HB1171, HB1188, HB1211, HB1220, HB1224, HB1258, HB1299, HB1313, HB1317, HB1341, HB1347, HB1361, HB1364, HB1367, HB1401, HB1403, HB1404, HB1416, HB1479, HB1615 and HCR3001,HCR3003 & HCR3005. Those that failed include: HB1057, HB1089, HB1171, HB1184, HB1189, HB1264, HB1271, HB1288, HB1289, HB1309, HB1315, HB1358, HB1359, HB1383, HB1429, HB1484, HB1552, HB1571,. Bill Withdrawn includes: HB1462.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2088: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8122-01001m.pdf
This bill proposes amendments to the North Dakota Century Code concerning data security for insurance producers. It specifically updates provisions around cybersecurity events, including notification requirements for insurance licensees in the event of a breach involving nonpublic information. The bill ensures timely notification of the commissioner and affected consumers, along with updates on the incident’s details, recovery, and affected individuals. This legislation primarily impacts insurance producers and companies, ensuring their cybersecurity practices meet state requirements, but does not directly affect the retail sector or employers outside the insurance industry.
SB2288: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1291-01000.pdf
This Bill allows veterans organizations in North Dakota to use up to 20% of net proceeds from charitable gaming per quarter for food and beverage expenses, including alcohol, incurred in operating their club. Each organization is limited to operating one club at a single location. This bill may provide financial relief to veterans organizations by expanding the allowable uses of gaming proceeds for operational costs. This bill could impact veterans organizations by providing financial relief for operational costs, while potentially influencing gaming revenue allocations. Gaming operators working with veterans organizations may also see changes in revenue distribution. Additionally, state gaming regulators may need to update compliance measures for tracking how funds are used
SB2310: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1262-01000.pdf
This Bill proposes changes to North Dakota’s garnishment laws by increasing disclosure fees from $25 to $40 and modifying the minimum judgment threshold for garnishment proceedings. It also introduces the option for electronic service of garnishment notices, which could streamline processes for creditors and employers, while potentially increasing administrative costs for businesses. Employers may need to update their payroll systems to comply with the revised regulations.
HB1184: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0515-03000.pdf
Allows the investment of up to 10% of state-managed funds in precious metals, digital assets with a high market capitalization, or stablecoins. The bill sets guidelines for secure custody of these investments and outlines potential lending and staking options. This measure could impact financial institutions, investment firms, and state fund management by diversifying asset portfolios and introducing new investment opportunities.
HB1220: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0232-02000.pdf
Proposes the creation of an accelerated degree program for high-demand occupations in North Dakota. The bill allows state higher education institutions to offer these degrees without general education requirements and mandates that professional licensing boards recognize them as accredited programs. The bill could impact universities, students, and industries facing workforce shortages by providing faster pathways to employment.
HB1271: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0967-01000.pdf ~ FAILED in the House.
Proposes amendments to North Dakota’s property transfer laws by expanding the list of exemptions for providing statements of full consideration when deeds are transferred. The bill excludes transactions involving public utilities, charitable organizations, family-related sales, and certain agricultural properties under 80 acres. It could impact real estate businesses, agricultural property owners, and nonprofit organizations by simplifying documentation requirements for specific property transfers.
HB1309: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0082-01000.pdf ~ FAILED in the House.
This bill prohibits North Dakota governmental entities from contracting with companies that engage in boycotts of sectors like fossil fuels, mining, agriculture, or firearms. Companies must verify they are not participating in these boycotts to be eligible for contracts. This bill would primarily affect businesses in these sectors and those seeking state contracts, ensuring they meet the non-boycott criteria.
HB1315: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0015-01000.pdf ~ FAILED in the House.
This bill would have prohibited the deployment of the North Dakota National Guard into active duty combat unless Congress has declared war or authorized such deployment. This means the National Guard cannot be sent into combat situations without an official declaration or specific federal action. The bill includes provisions for the governor to take necessary actions to comply but does not restrict the governor from consenting to other types of federal deployments for civil support.
HB1317: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0413-02000.pdf
House Bill 1317 proposes several changes to North Dakota’s barber licensing laws, including the creation of new license categories such as “restricted,” “temporary,” and “retired” barbers. It also updates continuing education requirements for barbers and allows for new procedures around the licensing process. The bill aims to make the licensing system more flexible while maintaining standards.
HB1484: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1004-01000.pdf ~ FAILED in the House.
Proposes changes to North Dakota’s motor vehicle excise tax. It introduces a flat $100 tax for vehicles over ten years old and maintains the current 5% tax rate for newer vehicles. The bill also provides an exemption for vehicles purchased in states that do not assess sales, use, or excise taxes. Businesses involved in vehicle sales and registration services may be impacted by these changes.
HB1552: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1163-01000.pdf ~ FAILED in the House.
Seeks to limit home rule counties and cities in North Dakota from imposing or increasing sales, use, or gross receipts taxes beyond 3% after June 30, 2025. Existing tax rates above this threshold may remain until their approved expiration but cannot be reimposed at higher rates afterward. This bill could impact local governments’ revenue-generating capabilities and affect businesses subject to these taxes.
HB1571: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1229-01000.pdf ~ FAILED in the House.
Proposes amendments to North Dakota’s tax code related to economic development incentives and tax exemptions for biotech manufacturing. It revises the evaluation process for tax incentives, including credits for research, renewable energy, and manufacturing. The bill also modifies use tax regulations for contractors and updates exemptions for raw materials used in biologic manufacturing. Affected stakeholders include businesses in the biotech and construction sectors, potentially altering compliance costs and investment decisions.
HB1615: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1214-01000.pdf
Proposes changes to North Dakota’s charitable gaming laws. It requires organizations to secure a lease before applying for a gaming site license and introduces limits on local government requirements for site authorization. The bill also modifies how gaming proceeds can be used, adjusting allowable expense percentages based on revenue. Affected stakeholders include charitable organizations, gaming site operators, and local governments.
Phew! That was a lot to cover—thanks for sticking with us! Just a quick reminder: bills that have failed can still be reconsidered if action is taken promptly. If there’s something you believe deserves another chance, don’t hesitate to speak up right away!
Jan Wangler, Executive Director 