Legislative Overview ~ March 21, 2025
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
12 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1086, HB1094, HB1149, HB1174, HB1314, HB1346, HB1400, HB1401, HB1578, HB1610 + SB 2132, SB2207. There were none that were failed.
12 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB2063, SB2081, SB2116, SB2134, SB2165, SB2191, SB2196, SB2249, SB2259, SB2282, SB2293, & SB2353 + SCR4019. Those which were failed include: SB2105, SB2195 & SB2338.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
SB2063: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-8047-02000.pdf
This Bill amends section 24-02-20 of the North Dakota Century Code. It allows a delay of up to 21 days for the opening and resubmission of construction bids. This change gives the Department of Transportation more flexibility in scheduling bid openings. The bill also outlines bond requirements for bidders and clarifies how bonds or checks from the three lowest bidders are handled. It would provide bidders with more time—up to 21 days—before a construction bid opening. This adjustment allows bidders to prepare more thoroughly. Additionally, the bill clarifies that bonds or checks from the three lowest bidders will be handled in a specific way. The changes may reduce the risk of rushed submissions and ensure better-informed decisions.
SB2282: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1035-02000.pdf
This Bill proposes an income tax credit for employers who contribute to their employees’ child care costs. Qualified employers can receive a credit equal to 30% of their contributions, up to $500 per employee, for taxable years starting after December 31, 2024. The bill requires contributions to be made to licensed child care providers and mandates equal opportunities for all employees with child care expenses. This could encourage businesses to support employees with child care needs.
HB1314: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0412-02000.pdf
This Bill regulates mobile barbershops in North Dakota. It introduces new definitions and requirements for operating a mobile barbershop, including registration, vehicle specifications, and fees. The bill also empowers the State Board of Barber Examiners to establish rules concerning sanitation, equipment, safety, and location. Violations can lead to penalties, and inspections can occur during business hours. The bill also adjusts the licensing process for mobile barbershops.
HB1346: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0920-02000.pdf
This Bill modifies regulations for off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in North Dakota. Key changes include updated definitions for vehicle classes, clarified rules for operation by individuals under 16, and expanded authority for local governments to regulate OHV use. It also revises penalties for violations and safety training requirements.
Impacts: OHV owners and operators may face new rules regarding usage and safety training. Local governments can enact specific OHV regulations.
HB1610: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1276-02000.pdf
This Bill prohibits landlords in North Dakota from charging tenants fees for accepting rent payments made by cash, check, money order, or similar instruments. This bill aims to prevent additional financial burdens on tenants and promote fair leasing practices. Affected stakeholders include landlords, tenants, and property management businesses, potentially influencing their payment processing policies and administrative procedures.
~ The North Dakota Legislature tackled a variety of topics in both chambers today, with significant attention given to parental rights and local governance. In the House, lawmakers engaged in extensive discussions on Senate Bill 2105, which proposes to grant parents the right to “opt-in” for their children’s participation in school-wide surveys. This legislation would empower parents to review survey content before their children are asked to complete them, potentially increasing parental oversight in educational matters. Meanwhile, the Senate focused on House Bill 1346, which addresses the regulation of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) in residential areas. This bill aims to delegate authority to local municipalities, allowing them to establish ordinances governing OHV use within their jurisdictions. Both bills reflect ongoing efforts to balance individual rights, parental involvement, and local control in North Dakota’s legislative landscape. We have added these types of summary to show balance as well. If you’d like us to address more, less or feel we’ve got it “just right”, please let us know below!
Jan Wangler, Executive Officer. 