Bill > HB1326

This bill amends North Dakota's self-defense statute to modify language and add a new restriction on using force in self-defense. Specifically, the bill changes terminology from "person" to "individual" throughout the text and updates gender-specific language to be more neutral. The most significant substantive change is the addition of a new clause that prevents an individual from claiming self-defense if they were unlawfully possessing a firearm at the time of the incident, specifically if the firearm possession violated certain provisions of North Dakota's firearm regulations. The bill maintains the existing principles of self-defense, such as not justifying force used to resist lawful arrest, and prohibiting self-defense for individuals who intentionally provoke conflict or enter mutual combat. The new provision appears designed to discourage unlawful firearm possession by removing the self-defense justification for individuals who are already breaking the law by possessing a firearm illegally.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1326.html