North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1344

Introduced
1/11/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report Pass
1/31/23  
Engrossed
2/3/23  
Refer
2/13/23  

Caption

The attorney general's review of proposed administrative rules and the authority of the administrative rules committee to object to or void an administrative rule.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1344 would significantly affect state law by formalizing the role of the attorney general in reviewing administrative rules, which could lead to increased scrutiny of regulations imposed by government agencies. This shift places more emphasis on legislative oversight, potentially reducing the frequency of conflicts arising from unclear or excessively broad rules. Ultimately, the bill would align administrative practices with the intent of legislative statutes, arguably fostering a more regulated environment for various state operations.

Summary

House Bill 1344 focuses on the oversight of proposed administrative rules by the state's attorney general and seeks to empower the administrative rules committee with greater authority to object to or void such rules. This legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the adoption of administrative rules, ensuring that they comply with statutory mandates and do not overextend the authority of regulatory agencies. By establishing more rigorous oversight mechanisms, the bill intends to streamline the rule-making process and protect against potential overreach by administrative bodies.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 1344 appears mixed. Proponents, including some lawmakers and oversight advocates, view the bill as a necessary reform that enhances accountability within the administrative process. They argue that bolstering the authority of the attorney general and the administrative rules committee can protect citizens from unjust regulations. Conversely, critics argue that the bill might create additional bureaucratic hurdles, potentially slowing down the implementation of necessary administrative regulations, and complicating the operations of agencies tasked with rule-making.

Contention

A notable point of contention lies in the debate over the balance of power between legislative and executive branches of government. While supporters argue that enhancing legislative oversight promotes democracy and prevents administrative overreach, opponents contend that it might inhibit effective governance by slowing down the governmental response to emerging issues. As such, the bill has sparked discussions about the appropriate limits of executive authority and the extent to which legislative intervention should shape administrative rule-making processes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB1368

The authority of the administrative rules committee to void an administrative rule.

ND SB2182

The amendment of an administrative rule by agreement of the agency and administrative rules committee.

ND HB1434

The force and effect of administrative rules.

ND HB1495

Review of administrative and judicial rules.

ND SB0297

Administrative rules.

ND SB0264

Administrative rules review task force.

ND SF0127

Administrative rules-legislative review.

ND HB1340

Administrative rules.

ND SB120

Provide an additional basis for the Interim Rules Review Committee to revert a proposed administrative rule.

ND HB2491

Administrative rules oversight committee; dissent

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.