The Senate Appropriations - Human Resources Division meeting held on January 14, 2025, focused on the operations and challenges facing the North Dakota Ethics Commission. Key discussions highlighted concerns regarding the commission's effectiveness and public perception, particularly in relation to its role in overseeing lobbyists and ethical conduct among state officials.

Senator Maglendt commended Director Instock for providing detailed budget information, but expressed frustration over the public's disappointment with the Ethics Commission's perceived lack of action. He noted that many constituents feel the commission has not adequately addressed ethical issues, leading to a growing sense of frustration. The senator emphasized that while the commission was intended to serve as a watchdog, it appears to focus more on education rather than enforcement, raising questions about its effectiveness in promoting ethical behavior among public officials.

The discussion also touched on the increasing presence of lobbyists in the state capital, with Senator Maglendt expressing concerns that their influence has grown significantly since the implementation of term limits. He questioned whether the Ethics Commission has the authority to regulate lobbyist activities and expressed a desire for clearer guidelines on their influence in legislative processes.

In response, representatives from the Ethics Commission clarified that they do have jurisdiction over lobbyists and can adopt rules related to lobbying and transparency. However, they acknowledged that there has been no specific guidance issued regarding the influence of lobbyists, indicating a need for further discussion and potential rule-making in this area.

Additionally, the meeting addressed broader concerns about foreign influence, particularly from the Chinese Communist Party, in state investments. Senator Maglendt raised alarms about potential risks associated with foreign investments, specifically mentioning the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline. He questioned who is responsible for monitoring such influences, especially when concerns raised to the Public Service Commission have been overlooked.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Ethics Commission in fulfilling its mandate and the need for clearer communication and action to address public concerns about ethics and lobbying in North Dakota. The discussions highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in government operations as the commission navigates its role in the state's political landscape.