North Dakota House Bill HB1026

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25
• Report Pass: 1/29/25
• Engrossed: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/5/25
• Refer: 2/14/25
• Refer: 2/21/25
• Report Pass: 4/2/25
• Enrolled: 4/14/25
• Passed: 4/18/25

Caption

The administration of the state bonding fund; and to provide a continuing appropriation.

Impact

The impact of HB 1026 on state laws includes a shift in the responsibility for monitoring and managing the bonding fund, which is crucial for covering liabilities incurred by public employees and officials. The proposed changes mean that the OMB will now oversee the assessments, coverage amounts, and management of claims against the fund. This transition seeks to centralize authority and assist in potentially reducing operational redundancies. By establishing a clear administrative structure under the OMB, the bill aims to improve the state's preparedness to handle defaults or mismanagement issues dynamically.

Summary

House Bill 1026 proposes significant amendments to the North Dakota Century Code regarding the administration of the state bonding fund. The bill primarily transfers the management of this fund from the insurance commissioner to the office of management and budget (OMB), aiming for more streamlined financial oversight and administration. Furthermore, the bill introduces a continuing appropriation, which allows for ongoing funding directly to the OMB without requiring additional legislative approval each session. This change reflects an intention to enhance efficiency in the bonding process and fiscal management at the state level.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1026 appears to be largely supportive among legislators who recognize the need for better management of public funds. Stakeholders advocating for enhanced fiscal accountability have expressed optimism that the alignment with the OMB will lead to better financial practices and an increased ability to manage liabilities efficiently. However, some concerns were voiced about the loss of oversight details that were previously handled by the insurance commissioner, indicating a divide in perspectives on centralization versus oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise over the implications of transferring control of the bonding fund. Critics worry that consolidating management under the OMB may lead to a bureaucratic approach that could overlook specific operational needs of public employees. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding how claims and liabilities will be assessed and managed, especially regarding accountability measures for public officials. The repeal of certain sections of the North Dakota Century Code relating to the fund's administration was also a point of debate, with some arguing for the retention of existing provisions to safeguard effective oversight.