North Dakota House Bill HB1253

North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25
• Report Pass: 1/23/25
• Engrossed: 1/27/25
• Refer: 2/13/25
• Report Pass: 3/7/25
• Enrolled: 3/12/25
• Passed: 3/18/25

Caption

The authority of the attorney general to impose fines for gaming violations.

Impact

The introduction of HB 1253 indicates a significant adjustment to the enforcement landscape of gaming regulations in North Dakota. The prescribed fines, which range from $25 to $250,000 based on the type of organization and severity of the violation, aim to enhance accountability among gaming operators. This bill has potential implications for the gaming industry, as it formalizes a structured approach to penalizing violations that have previously been subjective or inadequately enforced. By enacting a clear framework for penalties, the state may foster improved compliance and adherence to established gaming laws.

Summary

House Bill 1253 aims to amend the North Dakota Century Code, specifically granting the Attorney General the authority to impose fines for various gaming violations. The bill delineates specific monetary penalties for different types of gaming organizations, including licensed organizations, distributors, manufacturers, and owners of authorized sites. These fines vary depending on the type of entity and the violation, establishing a scale that reflects the severity of the infractions. By enacting this bill, North Dakota seeks not only to ensure compliance with gaming regulations but also to deter violations that can undermine the integrity of the gaming industry within the state.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding HB 1253 seems to be positive among the legislative assembly, as evidenced by the overwhelming support reflected in the voting history, which shows no opposition in the Senate (45-0). Supporters of the bill regard it as a necessary step toward ensuring that gaming operators are held accountable and that reputable operations are maintained in the gaming sector. The absence of dissent during the voting process suggests a consensus on the need for stricter regulation and enforcement mechanisms not previously available under current law.

Contention

While there does not appear to be significant contention surrounding HB 1253 during its discussions, its implementation may draw scrutiny from various operational entities within the gaming industry. Critics may raise concerns regarding the potential financial burden that these fines could impose on smaller organizations, particularly in cases where misinterpretations of regulations lead to penalties. Nonetheless, the bill's supporters argue that the stringent measures are crucial for safeguarding the gaming industry against fraudulent activities and ensuring a fair playing field for all stakeholders involved.