Bill > HB1304

This bill amends North Dakota's ethics laws to create a specific exception allowing legislators to attend out-of-state educational events under certain conditions. The bill defines an "out-of-state educational event" as an event held outside the state that provides objective, educational materials to legislative assembly members. Legislators can attend such events if they have a good-faith belief that the event is genuinely educational, but they must be cautious about potential lobbying efforts. If unexpected lobbying occurs during the event, the legislator must either leave the event or pay market value to participate in the lobbying portion. The bill maintains existing prohibitions on lobbyists giving gifts to public officials for lobbying purposes but creates this specific carve-out for educational events. The North Dakota Ethics Commission retains the authority to assess civil penalties for violations, with penalties potentially ranging from up to $1,000 for smaller gifts to up to twice the value of gifts worth $500 or more. This amendment aims to provide legislators with opportunities for professional development and education while maintaining ethical boundaries around potential undue influence.

Military Affairs and Security

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1304.html