Legislative Overview – February 19, 2025
Today, a heartfelt tribute was held on the House Floor to honor the life of Representative Josh Christy from District 27, who sadly passed away on February 18, 2025. The tribute was delivered by Representative Jeremy Olson, with family members of Christy present to commemorate this solemn occasion. The atmosphere was marked by reflection and respect as those in attendance remembered Christy’s contributions and legacy. You can view more about Representative Christy here: https://ndlegis.gov/biography/josh-christy
17 Senate Bills Passed and awaiting House Response: SB2028, SB2036, SB2069, SB2097, SB2174, SB2256, SB2231, SB2271, SB2280, SB2297, SB2305, SB2354, SB2373, SB2374, SB2377, SB2380, & SB2396. Those that failed include: SB2313 & SB2383. No Bills Withdrawn.
10 House Bills Passed and awaiting Senate Response: HB1019, HB1155, HB1167, HB1216, HB1217, HB1319, HB1382, HB1551, HB1564, & HB16027. Those that failed include: HB1019, HB1155, HB1167, HB1216, HB1217, HB1319, HB1356, HB1372, HB1445, HB1449, HB1457, HB1490, HB1491, HB1516, HB1595, HB1605, & HB1606. No Bills Withdrawn.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2097: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0231-04000.pdf
The potential impacts of this bill on rural business owners depend on the specific amendments it introduces. If it involves changes to tax laws, regulations, or administrative processes, rural businesses might face increased compliance requirements or cost adjustments. Conversely, the bill could also introduce provisions offering financial relief, incentives, or streamlined processes that benefit rural enterprises. There are too many possibilities here to be specific. Definitely one to watch.
SB2174: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0603-03000.pdf
This Bill proposes amendments to North Dakota’s regulations on animal feeding operations. It updates zoning authority for counties and townships, clarifies setback distances, and introduces criteria for odor control using an odor footprint tool. The bill seeks to balance agricultural expansion with environmental concerns and community interests. Affected stakeholders include farmers, local governments, and environmental regulators. It could impact surrounding businesses by changing zoning and setback requirements for animal feeding operations, potentially influencing property values, air quality, and business operations nearby. Businesses reliant on tourism, residential developments, or retail may face challenges related to odor control and environmental compliance. Conversely, agricultural supply and service businesses could benefit from expanded operations. The bill introduces measures to mitigate potential conflicts using an odor footprint tool.
SB2396: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1372-04000.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.
HB1319: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0451-02000.pdf
This Bill would require the North Dakota State Investment Board to create and maintain a public website detailing all investments made with the state’s Legacy Fund. This website would list the names of companies, funds, derivatives, and other financial mechanisms, along with the country of incorporation and the amount of money invested in each. The purpose is to increase transparency regarding the use of Legacy Fund investments. While individual taxpayers wouldn’t need to take specific actions, they might gain more insight into how their state’s investments are being handled. This bill would primarily concern state officials and the public, particularly those interested in how taxpayer money is invested through the Legacy Fund.
HB1445: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0714-02000.pdf
This Bill seeks to amend North Dakota law regarding the definition of a pre-engineered structure and the requirements for obtaining plans and specifications from an architect or engineer for public improvement projects. The bill could impact construction businesses, architectural firms, and government entities involved in public projects by adjusting compliance thresholds and design requirements. These changes may reduce costs for smaller projects and provide flexibility in construction planning.
HB1457: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0976-01000.pdf ~ FAILED
This Bill proposes vaccine exemptions in North Dakota if specific conditions are unmet. It requires vaccines to meet FDA approval based on a one-year safety trial, full disclosure of potential risks, evidence showing the vaccine is safer than the disease, and manufacturer accountability for harm. The bill could impact businesses, schools, and healthcare providers by modifying vaccine mandate policies. It may increase individual choice but could reduce regulatory oversight.
~ This session of the North Dakota legislature indeed seems to be full of surprises and contradictions. It’s a reminder that the legislative process can be unpredictable and complex, often defying expectations.
Common sense bills that might appear straightforward can sometimes face unexpected scrutiny or opposition. Legislators may find unforeseen implications or consequences that weren’t immediately apparent, leading to lengthy debates or even the failure of bills that initially seemed like sure things. On the flip side, bills that were anticipated to face significant challenges are sometimes passing through with little resistance. This could be due to behind-the-scenes negotiations, shifts in priorities, or simply a different perspective on the issues once they’re presented on the floor.
The unpredictability of each day’s proceedings highlights the dynamic nature of the legislative process. It underscores the importance of staying engaged and informed throughout the session, as the fate of any given bill can change rapidly. For those following the session closely, like your organization’s members, this volatility emphasizes the need for constant vigilance and adaptability in advocacy efforts. It also reinforces the value of your work in keeping businesses informed about these day-to-day developments, as the impacts on stakeholders can shift just as quickly as the legislative landscape.
This “study in contradiction” serves as a powerful reminder of the complexity of lawmaking and the importance of active civic engagement, even when outcomes seem predictable. Every day truly does bring something new, making this legislative session a particularly fascinating and important one to watch.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director 