The House Education Committee voted 9-5 to recommend a do-not-pass on House Bill 14 91, a measure that would have altered rules governing high school athletics and activities. Committee members voiced concern that the bill could increase player movement and harm small, rural programs.

Representative Jonas, who moved for a do-not-pass recommendation, described extensive meetings between committee members, sponsors and the High School Activities Association (HSAA) and said the HSAA agreed to add an independent appeals process. "There are over 30,000 athletes in North Dakota, athletes and activities, band and choir and drama that compete. And there were 12 hardships last year and 10 were approved," Jonas said while describing why an appeals panel was important and how often hardship requests arise.

Committee members expressed concerns that the bill could create a recruiting advantage and disrupt team camaraderie in small districts. Several members said they had seen recruiting and transfer activity in their regions and worried the bill would worsen those trends. Supporters and several committee members said the HSAA representatives had committed to reforms, including creation of an independent hearing committee to review appeals.

After the do-not-pass vote, members recorded that the HSAA’s board met and approved development of the independent hearing committee that would take effect next year. Representative Jonas said HSAA leadership and the committee had made commitments and he would carry the bill to the floor despite recommending do not pass in committee.

Next steps: The bill will go to the House floor with a do-not-pass committee recommendation; the sponsor may carry the bill and track HSAA follow-through on promises of an independent appeals process.