Legislative Overview ~ March 12, 2025
Today, March 12, 2025, marks the 38th legislative day of the North Dakota 69th Legislative Assembly. The House and Senate held brief floor sessions as part of their ongoing work during this legislative period. While the floor sessions were concise, important committee work continues behind the scenes. North Dakota businesses should stay informed about the progress of bills related to property tax reform, workforce development initiatives, and efforts to reduce burdensome regulations – all of which are key priorities for the state’s business community this session. As the legislature moves forward, it’s crucial for business owners to engage with their representatives and voice their concerns and support for policies that will foster a thriving economic environment in North Dakota.
Here’s a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
7 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1105, HB1153, HB1313, HB1336, HB1426, HB1529 & HB1547 + HCR3024. There were none that failed.
10 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB2032, SB2042, SB2091, SB2100, SB2126, SB2229, SB2275, SB2332, SB2358 & SB2367 + SCR4018. Those that failed include: SB2281 & SB2365.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2042: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8003-01000.pdf
This Bill requires criminal history record checks for naturopathic doctors and genetic counselors in North Dakota as part of their licensing process or disciplinary investigations. The bill grants the North Dakota Board of Medicine the authority to conduct statewide and nationwide background checks in coordination with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Applicants and licensees under investigation must cover all costs associated with these checks. This bill could impact healthcare professionals, licensing boards, and medical employers by adding an additional layer of vetting for medical practitioners. While it enhances public safety and professional oversight, it may also increase costs and administrative burdens for those seeking licensure.
SB2091: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8130-01000.pdf
This Bill amends North Dakota’s reinsurance requirements for the Reinsurance Association of North Dakota, which helps insurers manage high-cost claims under individual health plans. The bill adjusts the reinsurance coverage range, ensuring that for claims between $100,000 and $1 million per plan year, insurers receive up to 75% reimbursement for covered expenses. It also grants the association’s board the authority to set annual attachment points and coinsurance percentages before April 1 of each year.
This bill could impact health insurers, policyholders, and healthcare providers by stabilizing insurance markets and controlling premium costs. By adjusting reinsurance coverage levels, it may help insurers better manage financial risks associated with high-cost claims, potentially reducing premium increases for consumers. The bill is marked as an emergency measure, meaning it would take effect immediately upon passage.
SB2100: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0331-01000.pdf
This Bill proposes amendments to North Dakota’s emergency medical services (EMS) training regulations. It establishes standards for EMS personnel certification, licensure, and quality review, allowing instructors to provide entry-level training without requiring an EMS training institute. The bill makes licensing of training institutions optional and introduces penalties for misrepresenting certification status. It also protects quality review data from legal discovery. The bill primarily impacts EMS personnel, instructors, and training institutions.
SB2281: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0684-02000.pdf ~ FAILED
This Bill proposes changes to North Dakota’s tobacco tax regulations by defining and taxing alternative tobacco products, including nicotine pouches and dissolvable tobacco items. The bill introduces new tax rates, revises revenue allocation, and establishes penalties for non-compliance. Business owners in retail and wholesale tobacco sales may experience increased tax liabilities and compliance requirements. The bill also creates a tobacco tax distribution fund to direct collected revenues for specific purposes.
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We are deeply saddened to share that our Board Vice President, Jerol Gohrick, his partner, and their young son were involved in a serious head-on collision out of state last night. As they face surgeries and the road to recovery ahead, we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Thankfully, we have been informed that they will be returning home, and we look forward to their safe return.
During this challenging time, we appreciate your support and understanding. Our thoughts are with Jerol and his family as they navigate this difficult period. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your kindness and consideration.
Update from NDBU Leadership
We are grateful for the outpouring of support from our community. Your prayers and well wishes mean a great deal to us and to Jerol’s family. We will keep you updated on their progress and look forward to welcoming them back home soon.
In the meantime, we appreciate your continued support and understanding and we will continue to provide legislative information here for you and continue our prayers for the Gohricks.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director 