Legislative Overview ~ March 24, 2025
It was announced in both chambers today that SB2261 which passed both the House and the Senate and was sent to the Governor for signature has been vetoed 
by the Governor. That did not deter the legislators from their task to consider and debate the bills and resolutions which came before them, including reconsideration of some bills that had failed.
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
11 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1021, HB1066, HB1113, HB1216, HB1317, HB1345, HB1444, HB1507, HB1515, HB1597, & HB1615. Those which were failed include: HB1161 & HB1568.
5 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB20247, SB2172, SB2209, SB2278 & SB2302. Those which were failed include: HCR3035.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
HB1066: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8080-02000.pdf
This Bill proposes setting the minimum hourly wage for individuals employed under the Senior Community Service Employment Program in North Dakota. The bill establishes a base wage of $12 per hour or an amount determined by the Department of Health and Human Services, subject to available funding. This measure affects senior employment programs and may impact businesses that partner with the program by setting wage standards.
HB1317: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0517-03000.pdf
This Bill 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.
A seasoned barber could benefit from this bill, as it introduces a “retired” license category, potentially allowing them to maintain a valid license without meeting regular continuing education requirements. Additionally, the bill streamlines the licensing process, which might make it easier for experienced barbers to renew their credentials. However, they may also need to adjust to any new requirements if they choose to upgrade their license status.
HB1345: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0866-02000.pdf
This Bill proposes adjustments to North Dakota’s vehicle registration fees based on vehicle weight and age. It includes specific updates for passenger vehicles, house cars, and pickup trucks, focusing on gross weight calculations and registration card requirements for load capacity. This bill could impact vehicle owners as they may see changes in registration costs. Pickup truck owners must ensure gross weight registration includes vehicle and load weight.
HB1515: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0936-03000.pdf
This Bill proposes amendments to North Dakota’s motor vehicle warranty work compensation law. The bill mandates fair compensation for dealers performing warranty-related services, ensuring they receive payment comparable to non-warranty work. It establishes guidelines for labor and parts reimbursement and outlines procedures for submitting and resolving claims. This bill affects automobile dealerships and manufacturers by regulating warranty-related financial transactions and ensuring compliance with fair market compensation standards.
HB1568: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0954-03000.pdf ~ FAILED
This Bill proposes updates to North Dakota’s agricultural and environmental policies, focusing on improving soil health programs and supporting sustainable farming practices. The bill outlines funding allocations for soil conservation districts and encourages partnerships between farmers and state agencies to promote best practices. It may impact agricultural businesses, conservation organizations, and local communities by providing financial and technical assistance for soil health initiatives.
HB1615: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1214-02000.pdf
This Bill 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.
~ The recent events in the North Dakota House of Representatives highlight the importance of citizen engagement in the legislative process. On Friday, March 21, 2025, with 10 members absent, Bill SB2105, a bill that would grant parents the right to “Opt-In” for student surveys, allowing them to review these surveys before their children participate, was defeated.
Today, though the reconsideration received enough support on the floor to be brought up again, it ultimately failed again by a narrow margin of 45-44, falling short of the 48 votes required to pass. This close vote demonstrates how every legislator’s presence and decision can significantly impact the outcome of proposed legislation.
This situation underscores the potential influence citizens can have by contacting their legislators, no matter the current bill status. Whether you agree or disagree with a proposed bill, reaching out to your representatives can make a difference in how they vote and shape policy decisions. If you need assistance in identifying your legislators or finding their contact information, let us know below, as we are happy to help provide you the resources for the future.
Remember, your voice matters in the legislative process, and engaging with your elected officials is a crucial part of a participatory democratic republic.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director 