Bill > SB2211

This bill updates North Dakota's attorney recruitment and retention program to help rural counties and municipalities attract and keep lawyers. The program allows counties and municipalities with five or fewer licensed attorneys to apply to the Supreme Court for assistance in recruiting legal professionals. Eligible counties and municipalities must have populations of 5,000 or fewer and agree to contribute a portion of an incentive payment. Selected attorneys receive a total incentive of $45,000, paid in five equal annual installments, with 35% funded by the local county or municipality, 15% by a legal association, and the remainder by the state, subject to legislative appropriation. Participating attorneys must commit to practicing full-time in the selected area for at least five consecutive years. The bill modifies existing program rules to expand recruitment efforts, clarify eligibility requirements, and prevent attorneys from participating in multiple similar programs. The Supreme Court maintains oversight, including assessing local needs, selecting participants, and managing the program's fund. The goal is to address attorney shortages in rural North Dakota communities by providing financial incentives for lawyers to establish practices in underserved areas.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo2211.html