The North Dakota State Legislature convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss and vote on several significant bills impacting various sectors, including real estate, public employee retirement, and transportation regulations.
One of the key discussions centered around Senate Bill 2152, which aims to enhance transparency in property transactions by requiring the recording of purchase prices on deeds. This bill, championed by Representative Vedder, is designed to provide better market data for buyers, thereby facilitating fair market valuations and improving access to financing for homeownership, particularly in rural areas. The bill passed with a strong majority, receiving 75 votes in favor and 16 against.
Another notable piece of legislation was Senate Bill 2073, which updates the criminal history record check requirements for individuals with access to federal tax information. This bill aligns North Dakota's regulations with recent federal guidelines, reducing the rechecking period for employees from ten years to five. It passed unanimously with a vote of 90-0.
The assembly also addressed Senate Bill 2119, which clarifies eligibility for disability retirement benefits within the North Dakota Public Employees Retirement System. This bill ensures that individuals who qualify for normal retirement benefits are not eligible for disability benefits, aligning state practices with federal standards. It received unanimous support, passing 90-0.
Senate Bill 2121, which amends various sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to public employee retirement, also garnered unanimous approval. This bill aims to clarify existing laws and ensure compliance with federal tax regulations.
In transportation, Senate Bill 2075 was introduced to modify duty hours for intrastate drivers, extending the daily limit from 12 to 14 hours. This change aligns state regulations with federal standards and aims to improve operational efficiency for drivers. The bill passed with a vote of 91-0.
Lastly, Senate Bill 2324, which allows cities and counties to amend their home rule charters without voter approval to align with state law, was discussed. This bill aims to resolve conflicts in local governance and streamline administrative processes. It passed with a vote of 85-6.
Overall, the session highlighted the legislature's focus on enhancing transparency, aligning state laws with federal regulations, and improving operational efficiencies across various sectors. The passage of these bills reflects a commitment to supporting public interests and adapting to changing legal landscapes.