Legislative Overview ~ March 20, 2025

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

 

8 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature:                                                                                    HB1001, HB1024, HB1205, HB1206, HB1278 + SB 2127, SB2136, & SB2177.  Those that failed include:  SCR 4025.

5 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature:                                                                                     SB2183, SB2247, SB2253, SB2382, & SB2217.  There were none which failed.

 

The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:

 

SB2136:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0781-02000.pdf

SB2177:  https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0947-04000.pdf

 

Today’s legislative sessions were marked by significant debate and consideration of several key bills. Two of the most contentious issues were HB1205, which proposes the installation of Safe-Haven Baby Boxes in the Senate, and a bill related to compression brakes on large vehicles (SB2253) in the House.

HB1205 aims to amend North Dakota’s Safe Haven law by authorizing the use of baby abandonment boxes. This proposal has sparked considerable discussion, with supporters arguing it provides a safe and anonymous way for parents to surrender newborns, while opponents raise concerns about the lack of oversight and potential long-term consequences for the children involved.

In the House, lawmakers debated a SB2253 concerning the use of compression brakes on large vehicles in certain areas. This issue highlights ongoing efforts to address safety concerns related to noise pollution and traffic management in North Dakota.

These debates reflect the legislature’s commitment to thoroughly examining complex issues that impact the state’s residents and infrastructure. As the session continues, it’s crucial for stakeholders like you to stay informed about these developments and their potential impacts on your business and your community.

 

Jan Wangler, Executive Director