2023 Legislative Recap
The
68th State Legislative Assembly concluded on Sunday, April 30 after 75 days. A
total of 990 bills were introduced during the session, and two-thirds of those
bills and resolutions were passed. Many studies were also proposed to be considered
during the interim, and legislative management will meet to review and assign
them to interim legislative committees prior to the 2025 Legislative Session.
A
few highlights of the session that will transform North Dakota in many ways
include tax reform, animal agriculture, childcare, workforce, and tourism
initiatives. Some bills of note include:
·
HB 1158
- The largest individual income tax relief package
in state history, this bill combines $358 million in income tax relief and
$156.7 million in property tax relief, giving homeowners the ability to claim a
$500 property tax credit on their primary residence.
·
HB 1018
- The Department of Commerce's budget bill
includes $12 million to expand "Find the Good Life", a talent
attraction initiative that combines strategic marketing, connection to
communities and employers, and unique tracking capabilities that quantify
return on investment. The Tourism Destination Development Fund also received
$25 million and capped at $5 million per project.
·
HB 1540
- In an effort to support child care services and
combat North Dakota's labor shortage, the legislature passed a $65.6 million
childcare assistance package.
Read more on the
recap of the 2023 State Legislative Session and other passed bills here.