Legislative Overview – January 10-15
As predicted, things are ramping up! Let’s get right to it.
20 Senate Bills Passed and awaiting House Response: SB2040, SB2051, SB2052, SB2058, SB2060, SB2061, SB2063, SB2064, SB2068, SB2073, SB2075, SB2076, SB2078, SB2079, SB2080, SB2085, SB2086, SB2087, SB2078. Those that failed include: SB2111, SB 2108, SB2140.
25 House Bills Passed and awaiting Senate Response: HB1113, HB1038, HB1048, HB1051, HB1053, HB1055, HB1056, HB1065, HB1069, HB1070, HB1073, HB1074, HB1075, HB1079, HB1081, HB1082, HB1083, HB1090, HB1091, HB1092, HB1093, HB1112, HB1116, HB1124, HB1152. Those that failed include: HB1046, HB1052, HB1054, HB1101.
Of Interest in the business world are:
SB2158: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0300-02000.pdf
Senate Bill 2058 amends the certification and continuing education requirements for water well contractors and related professionals. It establishes reciprocity with other states for certification and modifies continuing education requirements for certificate holders, such as preapproval of courses by the board. The bill also repeals certain outdated provisions regarding certifications and requirements. Senate Bill 2058 would affect independent water well contractors by requiring them to comply with updated certification and continuing education standards. The bill introduces reciprocity with other states for certification and mandates preapproved continuing education courses. Contractors would need to adapt to these changes, potentially involving additional time or costs for continuing education, but it could also allow greater flexibility if they hold certifications from other states.
SB2063: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8047-01000.pdf
Senate Bill 2063 addresses bid delays for construction contracts by allowing a delay of up to 21 days at the discretion of the Department of Transportation. It also mandates electronic notification for new bid opening dates. Additionally, it specifies requirements for bonds or checks from bidders, outlining how the three lowest bidders’ bonds are handled during the contract award process.
SB2080: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8093-01000.pdf
Senate Bill 2080 addresses various child support enforcement aspects, such as ensuring continued support after a child reaches majority under certain conditions, requiring affidavits for resuming support, and clarifying that a termination of parental rights doesn’t end child support obligations. Additionally, it includes amendments related to medical support enforcement and child support obligations in divorce or other legal matters.
How could this affect employers?
Senate Bill 2080 could impact employers by requiring them to comply with child support withholding obligations in cases where an employee is subject to such orders. Employers may be required to continue deductions even after a child reaches the age of majority if certain conditions are met. Additionally, employers could face penalties for non-compliance with these updated enforcement measures.
HB1074: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8099-01000.pdf
House Bill 1074 amends provisions related to the operation and regulation of the North Dakota National Guard. The changes ensure that the articles of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) apply to the National Guard and allow for military personnel to be held accountable under UCMJ even after service ends. The bill also updates the North Dakota Military Civil Relief Act, aligning it with federal law to provide protections for individuals called to active service for 30 or more consecutive days.
How could this affect employers?
House Bill 1074 could affect employers by introducing new legal obligations related to the deployment of National Guard members. Employers may need to accommodate employees called to active service for 30 or more days, as the bill aligns state law with federal protections. This may involve ensuring job reinstatement and providing certain employment protections during their absence.
HB1093: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0407-01000.pdf
House Bill 1093 makes adjustments to the requirements for commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) in North Dakota, especially regarding agricultural operations. It exempts certain farm vehicles from CDL requirements if used within 150 miles of the farm for agricultural purposes. Additionally, the bill provides conditions under which agricultural employees may receive waivers from taking CDL knowledge and skills tests. These changes aim to reduce burdens on farmers and those involved in agricultural transport.
We extend a warm welcome to our new members! We trust that you will find substantial value in the information shared within our community. While legislation directly impacting businesses has been limited thus far, numerous bills are in development addressing diverse areas such as Workforce Safety and Insurance (WSI), gaming, agriculture, horse racing, and even tax exemptions for thrift store clothing, among other topics. Rest assured, we remain vigilant in monitoring these developments to keep you well-informed. We encourage you to visit our platform regularly for updates. Although our SMS system awaits federal approval, we anticipate receiving positive news soon. Your continued engagement and patience are greatly appreciated as we strive to enhance our services for your benefit.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director