Rep. Keith Kempenich

Maddy summarySB 2368 creates a state-administered grant program for infrastructure projects on North Dakota's national grasslands, directly benefiting cooperative grazing associations and their representative organizations. Grants fund specific improvements like water systems, fencing, conservation work, wildlife habitat enhancements, and carbon capture initiatives, all located on federally managed grasslands. Organizations receiving grants must provide a $1 nonstate match for every $4 in state funding and develop approved grazing land plans with local soil conservation districts. The agriculture commissioner will oversee the program, focusing on practical infrastructure upgrades to support sustainable grazing operations.

Maddy summarySB 2161 amends North Dakota law governing the barley council and wheat commission, primarily adjusting assessment rates for producers. It increases the barley assessment to 20-30 mills per bushel (with exemption for barley used as livestock feed) and sets the wheat assessment at 15-20 mills per bushel for wheat grown, delivered, or sold in the state. The bill also updates membership rules for the councils, including term limits and procedures for filling vacancies. These changes directly affect barley and wheat producers who sell their crops within North Dakota, as they will pay the updated assessments. The bill was signed into law by the Governor on March 18, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis North Dakota concurrent resolution (HCR 3024) requests that the U.S. Congress transfer management of the state's national grasslands - over 1 million acres currently overseen by the U.S. Forest Service - to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). It argues the NRCS better aligns with the original purpose of the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act, which established these grasslands to control erosion, conserve resources, and support agricultural lands. The resolution does not change management itself but urges Congress to act on this recommendation. It directly affects North Dakota's national grassland properties and their conservation management approach.

Relating to term limits for members of the legislative assembly and statewide elected officers; to repeal section 4 of article XV of the Constitution of North Dakota, relating to prohibiting the legislative assembly from proposing certain amendments to article XV of the Constitution of North Dakota; and to provide for application.

Maddy summaryHCR 3036 is a constitutional amendment proposing changes to how North Dakota's legislature convenes. It would allow the legislature to meet annually or every two years for up to 100 days per session, with specific dates for organizational meetings (December) and regular sessions (starting January). The bill directly affects legislators by setting session length limits, requiring two separate readings of bills, and clarifying how sessions are counted (excluding organizational days and special sessions). If approved by voters, these changes would take effect on January 1, 2027.

Relating to the definition of a pre-engineered structure and the threshold for procuring plans, drawings, and specifications from an architect or engineer for construction of a public improvement.

Maddy summaryHB 1493 is a procedural bill that seeks to repeal North Dakota's Section 54-60-31 of the Century Code, which established the "office of legal immigration." The bill does not create new policy but would eliminate the legal framework for this specific office. It was introduced in January 2025, referred to a committee, and ultimately failed to pass on February 18, 2025, with 22 votes in favor and 67 against. This repeal would directly affect the existence of the office of legal immigration, which was created under the repealed section.

Maddy summaryHB 1306 would revise North Dakota's rules for charging fees when requesting public records. It sets a 25-cent fee per paper copy (max 8.5x14 inches), requires actual costs for non-paper copies, and allows up to $25 per hour for locating records (with free annual service for state citizens under 40 hours). Public entities could charge for postage, require payment before processing, and withhold records until prior balances are paid. The bill specifically applies to government agencies handling public records requests.

Maddy summaryHB 1576 requests a study by North Dakota's legislative management to examine how oil and gas tax revenues are distributed to local governments (like cities and counties). The study, to be completed during the 2025-26 interim, would analyze current and historical revenue allocations and assess whether distribution levels align with infrastructure needs tied to oil and gas development. It would require the legislative management to report findings and proposed legislation to the 2027 legislature. The bill does not change current revenue rules but aims to inform future policy decisions.

Relating to a legacy earnings fund; to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 21‑10‑06 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to funds invested by the state investment board; to repeal sections 21‑10‑12 and 21‑10‑13 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to legacy fund definitions and a legacy earnings fund; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.