The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, issued its 2025 legislative priorities for North Dakota small businesses.

“North Dakota small business owners are struggling with rising costs and workforce shortages,” said Don Larson, NFIB North Dakota State Director. “If we want North Dakota to grow and thrive, our lawmakers must prioritize policies that remove excessive red tape and bolster our Main Street businesses. NFIB calls on the Legislature to support the backbone of our state’s economy by passing pro-small business legislation during the 2025 session.”

NFIB North Dakota’s 2025 legislative priorities include the following:

• Property Taxes– Property tax relief and reform will be one of the top issues going into the 2025 North Dakota legislative session. Governor Armstrong and many legislative leaders have made it clear that they want to see a strong measure come out of the legislature. NFIB North Dakota’s top priority will be ensuring that the property tax burden doesn’t get shifted onto the backs of our business community.
• Workforce Development– There is a shortage of eligible workers throughout North Dakota. To help small businesses survive and thrive, North Dakota legislators need to continue to prioritize workforce needs. This includes increased efforts in recruitment, training, and childcare to get additional people into jobs quickly and ensure businesses thrive.
• Pushing Back Against Burdensome Regulations– During past several legislative sessions, bills have been introduced that would have brought about excessive and burdensome policies that would negatively impact Main Street businesses. This includes wage mandates, mandatory paid leave programs, and increased regulations on business. NFIB will continue to push back against these unnecessary regulations and increased costs.
• Health Care Costs– North Dakota small businesses continue to bear the cost of double digit increases in health insurance premiums. NFIB supports more transparency and reporting requirements and less unnecessary paperwork from the health care industry. We also support increased transparency in pharmacy benefits management and hospital operations, empowering employers and patients with more choices and crucial information about their benefits.