HB 1285 adjusts compensation for North Dakota's permanent state employees, setting average 3% raises in 2025-26 and 2% in 2026-27, based on performance (excluding probationary staff and underperformers). It redirects $49.2 million - half the cost of prior higher raises - to the teachers' retirement fund for a one-time supplemental payment to eligible retirees. The bill requires state agencies to follow specific guidelines for implementing these raises and mandates the transfer to the teachers' fund during the 2025-27 biennium. It directly affects eligible state employees receiving raises and retirees receiving the supplemental payment.
Relating to exemptions from the employee classification system; and to repeal section 54‑52.5‑04 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to an incentive compensation plan for the state retirement and investment office.
HB 1559 would limit annual increases in property taxes for residential homeowners in North Dakota by capping tax valuations at the average of the previous three years' values. Exceptions allow reassessment if property was previously untaxed, sold/transfered, or underwent significant improvements (not including routine maintenance or standard repairs after damage). The bill directly affects residential property owners by preventing sudden tax hikes from normal market value changes. It would take effect for tax years starting after December 31, 2024, and prohibits local governments from overriding these rules under home rule authority.
SB 2391 would designate Stutsman County Road 62 (from its junction with State Highway 46 to its junction with Interstate 94) as part of North Dakota's state highway system. This bill directly affects travelers using this road segment and Stutsman County, as it would transfer maintenance and jurisdiction from the county to the state. The key provision requires the state director to officially add this specific road section to the state highway system. This is a procedural bill focused solely on road designation, with no new funding or policy changes.
Relating to a higher education infrastructure revolving loan fund; to provide an appropriation; to provide a transfer; and to provide for a legislative management report.
SB 2179 would require licensed motor vehicle fuel and special fuels dealers in North Dakota to pay an inspection fee of one-fortieth of one cent per gallon on gasoline, kerosene, tractor fuel, heating oil, and diesel sold within the state. Dealers must submit this fee monthly with their sales reports to the tax commissioner by the 25th of each month. The collected funds would be sent to the Department of Environmental Quality to support its fuel inspection program, as specified in the bill's provisions. This bill aimed to update the fee structure for the state's fuel inspection program under North Dakota Century Code section 23.1-13-16.
HB 1353 would limit how much property taxes can increase annually for North Dakota taxing districts (like cities, counties, and school districts) without voter approval. It caps annual increases at either the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or 3%, whichever is lower, with specific exceptions for new taxable property, changes in exemptions, or existing debt payments. Taxing districts could carry forward unused increases for up to three years but must seek voter approval (60%+ vote) for any increase exceeding the cap. The bill would apply to all taxing districts except for certain bonded debt payments, state medical center levies, and specific conservation district taxes.
Relating to the determination of state school aid, the primary residence credit, and removal of the homestead and disabled veterans' credit; to repeal sections 57‑02‑08.1, 57‑02‑08.2, and 57‑02‑08.8 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the homestead credit and disabled veterans' credit; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.
HB 1553 requires all North Dakota public and nonpublic schools to provide free breakfast and lunch to every student, eliminating meal debt restrictions that previously barred students with unpaid balances from meals or activities. It prohibits schools from stigmatizing students based on meal payment status (e.g., using tokens or public lists) or denying participation in school activities due to meal debt. The bill appropriates $140 million from the legacy earnings fund to the Department of Public Instruction for school meal grants, covering the 2025-2027 biennium. This policy directly affects all K-12 students and schools receiving state meal funding, ensuring universal access to meals without financial barriers.
HB 1560 would create a property tax reduction for North Dakota homeowners who have owned their primary residence for 30 years or more, reducing their taxable value by up to $18,000 annually. Homeowners must apply by August 1 each year (with 2025 applications due by August 1, 2025), and the credit applies to both standard real estate and mobile homes. Co-owners and spouses both qualify for the reduction if one meets the 30-year ownership requirement. The bill failed to pass the legislature in February 2025.
HB 1495 amends North Dakota law to require state and local government employers (including agencies, departments, and political subdivisions) to grant unpaid leave to employees serving as legislators during legislative sessions or committee meetings. The bill ensures that employees returning from this leave retain their original position, seniority, pay, and benefits, and prohibits employers from terminating or discriminating against employees due to their legislative service or candidacy. It directly affects legislative members who are employed by government entities, protecting their jobs while they serve in the legislature.
HB 1366 would establish specific fee amounts for speeding violations in North Dakota, directly affecting drivers who exceed speed limits. The bill sets tiered fees based on how many miles per hour over the limit a driver was traveling (e.g., $5 for 1-5 mph over in most zones, escalating to $500 for 10+ mph over in certain high-speed zones), with higher fees for school zones ($40 for 1-10 mph over) and construction zones ($80 for 1-10 mph over). It also specifies additional fees for violations like failing to yield to pedestrians or speeding in commercial vehicle safety rules. The bill does not change speed limits or enforcement procedures, only the financial penalties for specific speeding offenses.
