Legislative Overview ~ April 22, 2025
The Senate wrestled with HB1015, the massive budget of OMB (Office of Management and Budget). There was over an hour of Deliberations, Divisions and Amendments before a final vote of 31-16 to pass the matter. The House spent the greatest amount of their floor session equally on SB2093 which dealt with an income tax deduction for retired law enforcement personal benefits which ultimately passed 83-11 and HB1169 which dealt with Compensation for Veteran’s Benefits, which ultimately failed by a vote of 34-60.
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
7 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1015, SB2001, SB2011, SB2013, SB2200, SB2342, & SB2396. There were none failed.
11 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1049, HB1248, HB1308, HB1322, SB2093, SB2129, SB2262, SB2291, SB2294, SB2297 + SCR4017. Those that were failed include: HB1169.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2129: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8033-04000.pdf
This Bill proposes revisions to North Dakota’s veterinary medicine regulations. It introduces new definitions, updates licensing requirements for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, and clarifies the scope of practice, including complementary and alternative therapies. The bill also establishes penalties for noncompliance and provides updated guidelines for veterinary education and professional conduct. Affected stakeholders include veterinary professionals, animal owners, and regulatory bodies. It updates licensing requirements by introducing clearer criteria for obtaining and maintaining veterinary licenses, including continuing education and professional conduct standards. It also expands the scope of practice to include complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and chiropractic care, provided they meet regulatory guidelines. The bill aims to modernize veterinary services and ensure compliance with updated professional standards.
SB2396: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1372-07000.pdf
This Bill directs Legislative Management to contract an out-of-state, independent third party to conduct a performance audit of the North Dakota Department of Commerce for the 2025-2027 biennium. The audit will assess the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of the department’s operations from 2020 to 2024, comparing them to industry best practices and providing recommendations for improvements.
This bill could impact businesses and economic development organizations that interact with the Department of Commerce by identifying potential changes in funding, regulatory processes, or agency priorities. State employees and policymakers may also be affected if the audit results lead to operational restructuring or policy reforms. The final report is due by August 30, 2026, and could influence future legislative decisions regarding the department’s role in business development.
~ Happy Earth Day! While North Dakota’s 69th Legislative Assembly has not introduced many heavily “green” bills focused explicitly on environmental conservation, several energy and environmental measures related to resource management and emissions are active and likely to shape future debates. Key bills include HB1400, which addresses conservation easements and environmental impact mitigation funding, and SB2359, which revises state renewable and recycled energy objectives and related reporting requirements.
Additionally, HB1025 directs a legislative study on advanced nuclear energy feasibility, siting, and economic impacts in the state, signaling interest in expanding low-carbon energy sources8. The legislature has also passed bills concerning water resource management and aboveground storage tank regulation, reflecting ongoing attention to environmental quality within the energy sector1. While North Dakota’s energy policies remain largely supply-focused, with limited mandates on energy efficiency or greenhouse gas reductions, these legislative efforts indicate that energy and CO2-related issues will continue to be central topics as the state balances economic growth, energy development, and environmental stewardship.
In summary, Earth Day 2025 highlights a legislative session where “green” environmental legislation is modest but energy and emissions-related policies are prominent, setting the stage for continued discussion on how best to serve the planet, the state, and its residents. Keep the discussion going! How does the “green” movement affect your business? Let us know below!
Jan Wangler, Executive Director 