Legislative Overview ~ March 26, 2025
Day 48 of 80 in the 69th Session of the North Dakota Legislature has arrived, and the legislative process is intensifying. Bills requiring further discussion are now reaching the floor sessions, with both chambers experiencing clear divisions on various issues. Legislators are tackling complex topics, from accommodating pregnant inmates and infants in women’s correctional facilities to defining academic tenure policies in higher education institutions. These representatives are demonstrating their readiness to address challenging and diverse matters facing the state.
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
12 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1151, HB1269, HB1274, HB1305, HB1419, HB1437, HB1500, HB1530, SB2183, SB2247, SB2253, & SB2254. Those which were failed include: HB1389 & HCR3033.
9 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB2049, SB2070, SB2171, SB2233, SB2255, SB2299, SB2335, SB2352 & SB2359. Those which were failed include: SB2199.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2233: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0887-02000.pdf
This Bill proposes amendments to the North Dakota Century Code regarding the notice requirements for claims filed against the state or state employees. The bill introduces provisions that adjust the timeframe and conditions under which claims must be filed, including exceptions for incapacitated individuals and cases involving sexual misconduct. For business owners, particularly those involved in legal or insurance services, the bill could impact how claims against the state are processed and settled, potentially influencing risk management and compliance practices.
SB2247: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0604-03000.pdf
This Bill proposes changes to North Dakota’s vehicle titling and registration processes. It requires vehicle sellers to remove license plates upon transfer of ownership unless the plates have been expired for ten years or more. The bill also outlines procedures for obtaining a new title when the original is unavailable, with specific provisions for insurers, tax-exempt organizations, and individuals. Business owners in auto sales and insurance may need to adjust their procedures for title transfers and ownership verification.
It could also impact business owners with fleet vehicles by requiring them to remove license plates upon the sale or transfer of each vehicle, unless the plates have been expired for ten years or more. This may lead to additional administrative tasks related to plate management and transfers, potentially increasing operational costs and procedural complexity. Fleet operators may need to update internal policies to ensure compliance with the new titling and registration requirements.
SB2255: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1125-02000.pdf
This Bill proposes changes to the qualifications, term, and duties of the North Dakota state health officer. It revises the requirements for appointment, allowing for individuals with either public health education or administrative experience. The bill clarifies the officer’s duties, limits the scope of public health orders, and introduces legal oversight for business closures due to communicable diseases. Business owners may benefit from more defined regulatory processes and safeguards against broad health mandates.
~ There’s a Ripple Effect of Legislation on North Dakota’s Business Community!
As business owners in North Dakota, we’re all interconnected in ways that may not be immediately apparent. While certain bills might seem irrelevant to your specific industry, it’s crucial to recognize that legislative changes can have far-reaching consequences across our entire business ecosystem.
Consider this: Every piece of legislation has the potential to impact your competitors, affiliates, family, friends, or neighbors. These connections form the fabric of our local economy, and what affects one part of this network inevitably influences the whole.
By staying informed and engaged with all proposed bills, we actively participate in shaping North Dakota’s economic landscape. Remember, we’re not just individual business owners – we’re a community working together to build a stronger, more resilient state economy.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director. 