Legislative Overview ~ March 27, 2025
I guess all we need to do is wonder if things can get more interesting and they just do. Today the Senate overrode the Governor’s Veto of SB 2261, which introduces a Prison Industries Workforce Development Income Tax Credit aimed at encouraging primary sector businesses—those engaged in manufacturing, processing, or value-added activities—to collaborate with prison industries. The bill offers a nonrefundable tax credit of 10% for costs incurred when purchasing components or labor from prison industries, with an annual cap of $45,000 for total credits statewide. Any unused credit can be carried forward for up to five years. To claim the credit, businesses must apply by January 31st following the year of purchase, providing necessary documentation.
Additionally, the bill mandates a legislative study during the 2025-26 interim to explore how prison industries can align with private sector industries to enhance workforce development for incarcerated individuals and support their reintegration into society. This initiative aims to foster partnerships that benefit both the state’s economy and individuals transitioning out of the criminal justice system.
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
2 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1481 & HB1567 + SB2261. Those which were failed include: HB1213 & HB1430.
6 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB2005, SB2143, SB2146, SB2262, SB2274, & SB2379. Those which were failed include: SB2231 & SB2352.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2146: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0274-02000.pdf
This Bill proposes North Dakota’s participation in the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact. The compact allows occupational therapists and assistants licensed in one participating state to practice in other member states under a mutual recognition agreement. It sets standards for licensure, background checks, and disciplinary actions while promoting mobility, especially for military families and telehealth services.
HB1481: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1250-04000.pdf
This Bill requires dental insurers in North Dakota to file their proposed plan rates and group rating factors annually with the insurance commissioner. It allows the commissioner to disapprove rates deemed excessive, inadequate, or discriminatory. The bill sets an 83% dental loss ratio threshold, requiring refunds to policyholders if the insurer’s premiums exceed allowable limits. Businesses affected include dental insurers and employers offering dental benefits, with potential financial impacts on premium costs and compliance requirements.
~ The intensity of floor sessions in the North Dakota Legislature is unmistakable as lawmakers tackle a packed agenda. Despite the numerous bills awaiting attention, both chambers are zeroing in on a select few, signaling the importance of these issues. This level of focus underscores their commitment to addressing critical matters, and it’s a reminder for all of us to take these deliberations seriously as well. Stay tuned here at NDBU.org for ongoing updates—we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director. 