North Dakota House Bill HB1172

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25
• Report DNP: 2/12/25

Caption

The payment of fees for courses provided by the center for distance education.

Impact

The bill's implications on state laws could streamline the payment process for distance education courses while also clarifying the financial responsibilities between parents and school districts. By specifying that fees can be charged depending on certain conditions—such as availability of the course and schedule considerations—the legislation aims to enhance accessibility to education for students in North Dakota. This can be especially significant for districts that may have been previously unsure about their financial obligations concerning these courses.

Summary

House Bill 1172 aims to revise the existing provisions related to the payment of fees for courses offered through the Center for Distance Education in North Dakota. This bill modifies subsection 3 of section 15-19-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, specifying the responsibility of a student's school district of residence concerning fees for distance education courses. Under the new provisions, the school district may charge fees which are determined by the superintendent of public instruction, ensuring that costs are both applicable and standardized across differing educational provisions.

Contention

While the bill seeks to provide clearer guidance on fee structures, there may be potential contention regarding how these fees are determined and the overall impact on the students' families. Critics may express concerns that adding fees for distance education could deter students from enrolling in essential courses, especially in underserved regions where the availability of in-person courses is limited. Additionally, how these fees will be implemented and enforced may lead to debates among educational stakeholders about the equity and accessibility of distance education in the state.