Peace Garden News

The North Dakota Legislative Assembly's 2023 session, the last before term limits on state lawmakers take effect, was recently reviewed in a webinar hosted by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). The session, held on May 25, aimed to inform small-business owners about legislative outcomes that could impact their operations.

Alison Ritter, NFIB North Dakota State Director, and Don Larson, NFIB’s chief legislative advocate, led the discussion. They highlighted key legislation from the 932 bills and 56 resolutions introduced this year. Larson focused on approximately a dozen measures with significant implications for small businesses.

Positive legislative developments included income-tax relief, property-tax relief, child-care assistance, clarification of labor laws regarding minors in construction work, changes in state employee retirement compensation, water management, and flood control.

Conversely, NFIB managed to delay or push back against proposals concerning mandatory paid leave, minimum wage adjustments, and E-verification for job-seekers until further information becomes available.

Larson also addressed why North Dakota often garners national attention for its social issues. He explained that every bill introduced in North Dakota receives a hearing and is voted on in its original chamber. “In North Dakota," he said, "we have a unique process a lot of other states don’t."

Looking ahead to changes due to new term limits on legislators, Larson speculated about potential shifts towards annual sessions or more extensive interim sessions.

Ben Abrahamson, NFIB’s Grassroots Manager for North Dakota, concluded the webinar by emphasizing member involvement's role in shaping legislation and encouraging greater participation from NFIB members.