Legislative Overview ~ March 18, 2025

 

Today’s floor sessions in the North Dakota 69th Legislative Assembly were marked by a significant number of amendments being considered before bills could be approved. This process is typical in legislative proceedings, as amendments allow lawmakers to refine and improve proposed legislation.  As the session progresses, the focus on amendments highlights the importance of careful deliberation in the legislative process. This attention to detail is crucial for ensuring that laws passed are both effective and beneficial to the state’s residents.

Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:

 

21 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature:                                                                                    HB1078, HB1088, HB1138, HB1140, HB1158, HB1167, HB1170, HB1186, HB1204, HB1241, HB1299, HB1316, HB1344, HB1415, HB1447, HB1589, & HB1599 + HCR3008 approved House Amendments and then passed the following: SB2038, SB2090, SB2122, & SB2324.  Those that failed include: HB1257 & HB1518.

16 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature:                                                                                     SB2060, SB2084, SB2088, SB2107, SB2139, SB2140, SB2157, & SB2290 + SCR4007, SCR4013, SCR4020, approved Senate Amendments and then passed the following: HB1080, HB1118, HB1131, HB1238, HB1426, HB1543, HB1551, HB1554.  Those that failed include:  SB2193.

 

The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:

 

SB2088:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8122-02000.pdf

This Bill proposes amendments to the North Dakota Century Code concerning data security for insurance producers. It specifically updates provisions around cybersecurity events, including notification requirements for insurance licensees in the event of a breach involving nonpublic information. The bill ensures timely notification of the commissioner and affected consumers, along with updates on the incident’s details, recovery, and affected individuals.  This legislation primarily impacts insurance producers and companies, ensuring their cybersecurity practices meet state requirements, but does not directly affect the retail sector or employers outside the insurance industry.

SB2107:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0516-02000.pdf

This Bill proposes an amendment to North Dakota Century Code regarding early childhood services training for licensure. It ensures that any department-approved training hours completed by applicants or staff after submitting the required fees and application will count toward their annual licensing requirements for the following year. This change benefits childcare providers and employees by offering flexibility in meeting training requirements.

SB2139:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0581-01000.pdf

This Bill proposes an amendment to the North Dakota Century Code by increasing the fee for recording and rerecording livestock brands from $25 to $50. This change primarily affects livestock owners and the state’s brand recording system by doubling the cost associated with brand registration.

SB2193:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0247-01000.pdf   ~  FAILED

This Bill establishes new regulations for the certification and sale of assistance animals in North Dakota. It introduces documentation requirements for healthcare providers, specifying criteria for certifying an individual’s need for an assistance animal. The bill also mandates written disclosure requirements when selling or providing an assistance animal and imposes penalties for misrepresentation. It impacts healthcare providers, individuals with disabilities, and businesses involved in assistance animal sales.

HB1131:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0227-02000.pdf

This Bill allows farms in North Dakota to sell raw milk and raw milk products directly to consumers for personal consumption with labeling but prohibits sales to wholesalers, retail stores, or across state lines. The bill also exempts farms selling raw milk from certain regulatory provisions. This legislation could impact dairy farmers, small-scale producers, and consumers seeking unprocessed dairy products, while maintaining restrictions to prevent mass distribution.

HB1447:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1011-03000.pdf

This Bill proposes the creation of a new chapter in the North Dakota Century Code to regulate virtual currency kiosks. The bill outlines requirements and standards for businesses operating these kiosks, which allow customers to buy or sell digital assets like cryptocurrency. Affected stakeholders include kiosk operators, financial institutions, and consumers using these services. The bill may introduce compliance measures that impact business operations and regulatory oversight.

 

~ While national politics may seem tumultuous, North Dakota’s 69th Legislative Assembly is steadily working to address the needs of its constituents. Each day, lawmakers tackle a diverse range of issues that impact North Dakota voters and residents, demonstrating their commitment to the state’s well-being. This dedication is evident in their careful consideration of each bill, regardless of its personal impact on the legislators themselves.

The legislative process has been moving forward with bills being signed into law, reflecting a proactive approach to implementing legislation that benefits North Dakotans. This includes initiatives aimed at improving affordability and quality of life in the state. As the session progresses, the focus remains on issues that matter to North Dakota residents, from property tax relief to other measures designed to enhance life in the state.

 

Jan Wangler, Executive Director