The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, announced highlights from the 69th North Dakota Legislative Assembly, which wrapped on Saturday May 3, 2025.

“This year’s Legislative Assembly included several wins for small businesses,” said Don Larson, NFIB North Dakota State Director. “Legislators lowered property taxes, cut red tape, and increased transparency. Most importantly, they showed a commitment to ensuring North Dakota small businesses and the economy grow and thrive for years to come.”

Here are some of the highlights from the 2025 legislative session:

Property Tax Relief (HB 1176) – increases the primary residence credit from the current $500 to $1,600. It also provides reforms by capping local subdivisions to a 3% increase in spending to hold down the rate of growth over time.

Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Bill (HB 1584) – gives the North Dakota Insurance Department ability to regulate PBMs. This is an effort to get information on the costs of pharmaceuticals by requiring further disclosure by the PBMs to the state.

Gas Tax (HB 1382) – included a three cent per gallon increase in the gas tax. This bill was defeated by the Senate. The Department of Transportation budget bill (HB 1014) was amended to include a five cent per gallon increase I the gas tax. This provision was removed by the conference committee on the budget.

Mandatory Leave (HB 1608) – efforts to require employers to provide additional leave for employees was defeated. The bill would have required one day off per week but was poorly written without notice requirements to the employer.