The North Dakota House of Representatives approved House Bill 12‑83, a measure to eliminate member cost sharing for diagnostic and supplemental breast screenings under the state Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) health plan during a pilot period. The final vote was 66‑26 in favor.

Representative Carls, sponsor of the bill, framed the measure as a targeted step to improve early detection of breast cancer. "Currently, an initial screening, a mammogram, which is utilized for average risk women, is at no cost share. This bill is a cost share bill," Carls said, noting that follow‑up imaging and supplemental tests such as ultrasound or MRI can result in significant out‑of‑pocket costs that may deter follow‑up care. Carls cited studies and department statistics showing breast cancer’s prevalence and argued early detection saves lives and reduces long‑term treatment costs.

Appropriations committee members raised fiscal concerns. Representative Richter, explaining the committee’s 19‑1 do‑not‑pass recommendation, said the program as drafted would move a significant portion of Legacy Fund assets into a loan fund in a different bill and that the fiscal note for HB 12‑83 estimated multimillion‑dollar costs to the insurance program. Representative Pyle, who spoke in opposition, said the appropriation and premium impacts — an estimated $3.3 million in the first two years according to committee review — warranted caution.

Supporters noted favorable reports from the Employee Benefits committee and an earlier policy committee, which recommended the bill. Representative Carls said 10 percent of patients need follow‑up screening after a mammogram and about 15 percent of women at high risk require supplemental testing; removing cost barriers, he said, would improve detection. Representative Halvorsen asked members to weigh policy considerations and the policy committee recommendation in favor of the bill.

The chamber recorded committee testimony and a fiscal note during floor debate; the legislative analysis cited an estimated increase in premiums to cover the expanded cost‑share removal and noted retiree impacts. After debate the House approved the bill 66‑26. The bill now goes to the Senate for further consideration.