Legislative Overview ~ March 31, 2025
Today’s floor sessions in the North Dakota Legislature showcased the wide-ranging issues lawmakers are tasked with addressing. In the House, two bills drew significant debate: one focused on parental rights to seek legal remedies and another proposing the elimination of dog racing in the state. The latter, reflected in SB2384, seeks to amend licensing requirements and remove references to dog racing, signaling a shift in the state’s stance on this activity. Meanwhile, in the Senate, discussions centered around points on driver’s licenses and co-pays for breast cancer diagnostic testing. These debates highlight the diverse spectrum of topics legislators must navigate as they work to represent the interests of North Dakotans. From animal welfare to healthcare affordability, each issue underscores the complexity of policymaking at the state level.
Here is a summary of what took place during today’s floor sessions:
5 Bills Passed in the Senate and awaiting Governor’s Signature: HB1098, HB1283, HB1351, HB1422 & HB1483 . Those which were failed include: HB1250, HB1268, HB1381, HB1480, HB1512, & HB1614.
4 Bills Passed in the House and awaiting Governor’s Signature: SB2010, SB2138, SB2198, & SB2380, Those which were failed include: SB2244, SB2321, & SB2384.
The Bills we are tracking regarding the business world include:
HB1480: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-0839-02000.pdf ~ FAILED
This Bill allows individuals who are not the legal owners of a motor vehicle to request a certificate of title if the vehicle has not been registered for more than ten years. The bill outlines the process for notifying the last-known owner and publicizing the request. If no response is received within 14 days, the requester may obtain the title. This could impact auto salvage businesses, collectors, and title service companies by simplifying ownership claims for abandoned vehicles.
HB1483: https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/documents/25-1080-03000.pdf
This Bill proposes an amendment to North Dakota’s oil extraction tax law, reducing the tax rate for oil produced from new wells outside the Bakken and Three Forks formations. The bill increases the eligible production threshold from 75,000 to 90,000 barrels within the first 18 months and applies a reduced 2% tax rate. This change could benefit oil exploration businesses operating outside major formations by providing tax incentives.
~ As the North Dakota legislative session progresses, conference committees are being formed to address contentious bills that require reconciliation between the House and Senate. These committees, composed of three legislators from each chamber, play a critical role in resolving differences and drafting final recommendations for floor votes. This stage of the process is pivotal, as many bills teeter on the edge of approval or rejection.
For those passionate about specific legislation, this is a key moment to make your voice heard. Reaching out to legislators involved in these committees can have a significant impact on the direction of these bills. Staying informed and engaged ensures that your perspective is considered as lawmakers negotiate the final language of proposed laws. We’ll continue to provide updates and insights here to help you stay informed and actively involved in shaping North Dakota’s legislative outcomes.
Jan Wangler, Executive Director 