Concerns over House Bill 1391 dominated the North Dakota Senate Industry and Business Committee meeting on March 18, 2025, as multiple stakeholders voiced their opposition to the proposed legislation. The bill, which aims to address employer responsibilities regarding employee vaccinations, has sparked significant debate about public health and economic implications.

Rick Kleberg, president and CEO of the North Dakota Bankers Association, articulated strong opposition, emphasizing the need for employers to protect not only their employees but also their customers. He highlighted existing protections under North Dakota law, which were strengthened in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Kleberg warned that the bill could create complications for businesses, particularly in light of potential health crises, such as measles outbreaks, which could threaten public safety.

Kleberg stated, “We already have very extensive provisions in North Dakota century code... to ensure that when they go into a business, they’re going into a safe and protected business.” He underscored the importance of maintaining the ability for employers to ensure their employees are vaccinated against highly transmissible diseases to safeguard the community.

Marnie Wealth, representing Sanford Health, introduced Dr. Chris Meeker, the Chief Medical Officer of Sanford Bismarck, to further discuss the health implications of the bill. While specific details of their testimony were not disclosed in the excerpt, the involvement of healthcare professionals indicates a growing concern about the intersection of public health policy and business operations.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader hesitation among North Dakota lawmakers to be the first state to implement such measures without clear evidence of their effectiveness in other regions. As the debate continues, stakeholders are calling for more data and proof of concept before moving forward with legislation that could significantly impact the state's economy and public health landscape.