Bill > HB1495

This bill amends North Dakota's law regarding leaves of absence for legislative assembly members, expanding protections for employees who serve in the state legislature. The bill clarifies that any employer (defined as any entity paying wages) must grant a leave of absence to an employee who is a member of the legislative assembly when requested, for attending regular or special legislative sessions or legislative management meetings. While the leave can be unpaid, employers are now explicitly required to reinstate the employee in the same position with no loss of status, seniority, pay, or accumulated benefits upon return. The legislation also prohibits employers from terminating or threatening to terminate an employee's job solely because of their absence due to legislative service. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision preventing employers from discriminating against employees who are candidates for legislative assembly positions. These changes aim to protect the employment rights of state legislators and remove potential barriers to public service.

Business and Industry

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1495.html