North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SB2343

Introduced
1/18/23  
Refer
1/18/23  
Report DNP
2/1/23  
Engrossed
2/6/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Report Pass
3/28/23  
Enrolled
4/25/23  

Caption

State board of higher education policy; and to provide for a legislative management report.

Impact

The law is expected to positively influence the operational transparency of the State Board of Higher Education. By mandating that all board members have equal access to vital information, the bill fosters an environment where decisions can be made collaboratively and knowledgeably. Furthermore, the introduction of new guidelines related to the management of records and communication policies is aimed at mitigating miscommunication and enhancing the overall integrity of the board's actions.

Summary

Senate Bill No. 2343 aims to amend the North Dakota Century Code concerning the governance of the state's higher education system. It emphasizes policies that ensure transparent communication among members of the State Board of Higher Education, granting each member access to all relevant information necessary for performing their duties. The bill seeks to improve governance practices by enhancing accountability and ensuring that board members are well-informed, which is crucial for effective decision-making within the educational institutions under the board's control.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill is mixed yet leans towards a positive reception, as it reflects a commitment to procedural transparency and responsible governance. Stakeholders within the higher education system, including faculty and administrative employees, generally support the bill as it aligns with demands for better oversight and accountability in educational administration. However, some concerns were raised regarding the implementation of these measures and the potential bureaucratic burden it might create.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions about the balance between transparency and confidentiality regarding certain sensitive information within the university system. Critics argue that while transparency is necessary, there must be protections in place to ensure that sensitive data, such as personnel records, is safeguarded. Additionally, the bill's provisions regarding alterations to the retirement programs for employees of the university system have raised questions among staff regarding the implications for existing benefits.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SB2003

The naming of the Bismarck state college polytechnic center; to authorize the state board of higher education to issue and sell bonds for capital projects; to provide for a transfer; to provide for the conveyance of real property; to provide for a legislative management higher education funding review committee; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a report; to provide legislative intent; to provide an exemption; and to declare an emergency.

ND SB2338

Legislative districts; and to provide for application.

ND HB1614

A BILL for an Act to provide for a department of transportation study regarding autonomous and semiautonomous vehicle technologies; and to provide a legislative management report.

ND SB2004

The powers and duties of the state auditor and the salary of the state auditor; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1572

Park district bonding authority without a vote, reporting of legislative tax relief information, and delivery and contents of the real estate tax statement; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide for a legislative management report.

ND HB1446

A program for tenured faculty review at institutions of higher education; to provide for a legislative management report; and to declare an emergency.

ND SB1604

Relating to asset management and acquisition by institutions of higher education.

ND SB2012

The autism voucher; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a report; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1288

The lease of additional space by state agencies; and to provide for a legislative management study.

ND HB91

Alcoholic beverages; revise policy of state regarding prohibition of, revise certain provisions regarding delivery service permits.

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