The North Dakota Legislature's House Industry, Business and Labor Committee convened on March 25, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding student health insurance policies within the North Dakota University System. Katie Fitzsimmons, the director of student affairs, provided testimony regarding the current state of health insurance requirements for students.

Fitzsimmons clarified that there is no widespread requirement for domestic students to hold health insurance, although certain groups, such as international students and those in specific programs like medical school or athletics, are mandated to have coverage. She emphasized that the university system currently accepts health care sharing ministries as a form of insurance.

During the discussion, Fitzsimmons expressed her belief that the proposed bill may be addressing a non-existent problem rather than providing a solution. She noted that the issue of student health insurance would be better managed by the State Board of Higher Education rather than through state statute. Fitzsimmons highlighted that the university system has not been contacted by the out-of-state entity proposing the bill, suggesting that the matter should remain within the purview of university policy.

In response to questions from committee members, Fitzsimmons explained that while the university previously offered a domestic health insurance plan, it was discontinued due to low enrollment. Currently, over 96% of students report having some form of health insurance, often through parents or spouses. For those without coverage, resources like Minot State University's health marketplace navigators are available to assist students in finding insurance options, even outside of open enrollment periods.

The committee concluded the hearing on the bill, with no further neutral testimony provided. The discussion highlighted the ongoing challenges and considerations surrounding student health insurance in North Dakota's higher education landscape.