The proposed bill establishes Chapter 59-22 of the North Dakota Century Code, which introduces the Uniform Electronic Estate Planning Documents Act. This legislation aims to facilitate the use of electronic nontestamentary estate planning documents and signatures, ensuring they hold the same legal effect as traditional paper documents. Key definitions are provided, including terms such as "electronic record," "electronic signature," and "nontestamentary estate planning document," which encompasses various legal instruments related to estate planning that are not classified as wills. The chapter outlines the conditions under which electronic documents and signatures are recognized, emphasizing that they cannot be denied legal effect solely based on their electronic form.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that while electronic estate planning documents are permissible, there is no requirement for individuals to use electronic means for their estate planning. It also addresses the notarization and witnessing of electronic documents, allowing for electronic signatures to satisfy these requirements. The act is designed to be consistent with existing laws and practices regarding electronic documents and signatures, and it will apply to documents created or signed on or after July 31, 2025. Overall, this legislation aims to modernize estate planning processes in North Dakota by incorporating electronic options while maintaining legal integrity.