North Dakota Legislature: Discussions about the Legacy Fund and Property Tax continue

Bismarck, North Dakota – Everything from property tax legislation to water skiing is being debated in Bismarck as the 68th legislative session moves forward.

A tax reduction proposal is being considered by a North Dakota House committee.

A resolution to do away with property taxes was the subject of a hearing Monday before the House Finance and Taxes Committee. Supporters want to put the proposal on the ballot so that voters may decide.

Proponents claim that the proposal “upholds individual liberty” and will increase economic opportunities for locals.

Legislators are currently debating a proposal to transfer some royalties to the Legacy Fund.

The House resolution mandates that a percentage of intellectual property royalties that were acquired using Legacy Fund funds be paid to the fund directly. The objective is to maintain the program’s emphasis on supporting North Dakota businesses.

A plan that would create a special group to examine suicides in North Dakota is also being considered by lawmakers.

A House measure would create a suicide death review board made up of mental health specialists, a county coroner, a state forensic examiner, representatives of a crisis line, institutions of higher learning, veterans’ groups, the religious community, law enforcement, and tribal governments. To better respond to those who are in danger of suicide, the panel would identify risk factors and suggest rules and procedures.

A plan that would offer resident prices for out-of-state National Guard personnel to purchase hunting and fishing permits is now being advanced by the State Senate.

The proposed law would offer in-state hunting and fishing privileges to National Guard members who are not residents at the resident rate. Proponents claim that it will provide National Guard personnel stationed in North Dakota with an equal opportunity to engage in leisure activities. The measure is on its way to be signed by Governor Burgum.

Finally, a bill mandating the use of specified equipment while barefoot water skiing is being passed by the state senate.

To stay afloat, the skiers would need to wear wetsuits with flotation pockets. Also, a backup flotation device that has been certified must be aboard the towing vessel. The law was unanimously approved and is now on the desk of Governor Burgum.