Legislative Overview ~ April 4, 2025
The Senate floor was abuzz today with a heated 38-minute debate over House Bill 1258, a controversial piece of legislation concerning energy conversion and transmission facility siting. The gallery was packed with citizens who opposed the bill, reflecting the intensity of public interest surrounding the issue. Ultimately, the bill passed with a vote of 27-18-2, showcasing divided opinions among lawmakers. Proponents of HB 1258 emphasized the importance of prioritizing the rights of the majority over those of the minority, while opponents argued passionately for preserving local control against state-level interference. This debate highlighted the ongoing tension between corporate interests and local governance in energy infrastructure development.
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
12 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1027, HB1049, HB1203, HB1229, HB1258, HB1308, HB1429, HB1442, HB1466, HB1498, HB1537, & HB1591. Those which were failed include: HB1160, HB1220, HB1291 & HB1464.
11 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB2006, SB2007, SB2009, SB2016, SB2022, SB2051, SB2204, SB2218, SB2251, SB2305, & SB2333. Those which were failed include: SB2052, SB2104 & SB2341.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
HB1220: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0232-03000.pdf
This Bill proposes the creation of an accelerated degree program for high-demand occupations in North Dakota. The bill allows state higher education institutions to offer these degrees without general education requirements and mandates that professional licensing boards recognize them as accredited programs. The bill could impact universities, students, and industries facing workforce shortages by providing faster pathways to employment.
HB1291: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0654-03000.pdf
This Bill prohibits private employers in North Dakota from hiring or continuing to employ unauthorized workers. Violations could result in civil penalties, including fines and business license suspensions. A first offense could lead to a fine up to $5,000, a second offense up to $10,000 with a six-month suspension, and a third offense could result in a $30,000 fine and permanent license revocation.
HB1464: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0993-05000.pdf ~ FAILED
This Bill proposes the creation of a postpartum doula certification program and mandates Medicaid coverage for postpartum doula services in North Dakota. The bill defines certified doulas, outlines certification requirements, and allows the Department of Health and Human Services to regulate and list approved certification organizations. It aims to expand access to postpartum care for new parents by offering emotional and physical support services for up to six months after childbirth. Key stakeholders could include the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, the North Dakota Maternal Mortality Review Committee, and practicing doulas and midwives
HB1466: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0453-05000.pdf
This Bill seeks to amend North Dakota’s alcohol laws by redefining terms related to distilleries, including “domestic distillery” and “manufacturing distillery,” and introducing provisions for satellite locations. The bill allows manufacturing distilleries to sell spirits at off-site retail locations and hold events at these sites. It impacts businesses in the alcohol production and retail sectors by expanding opportunities for direct sales and promotional events.
~ The recent Senate debate brought to light the ongoing tension between lawmakers advocating for individual property rights and local control versus those pushing for increased state-level authority to support industries they believe align with North Dakota’s financial and economic development goals. Both sides presented reasonable arguments, reflecting the complexity of balancing personal freedoms with broader economic interests. Ultimately, the vote leaned toward greater government intervention, signaling a shift away from prioritizing local or individual property rights. The age-old argument of “the many versus the few” continues to resonate strongly in North Dakota, leaving many eager to see how these decisions will unfold as the legislative session nears its conclusion in the next 3-4 weeks. Stay with us as we follow along for you and with you!
Jan Wangler, Executive Director. 