This bill amends sections 32-12.1-03 and 32-12.2-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertain to the liability limits for political subdivisions and the state. The amendments increase the liability caps for political subdivisions from $375,000 to $468,750 per person and from $1 million to $1,875,000 for multiple claims arising from a single occurrence. Similarly, the liability cap for the state is raised from $375,000 to $468,750 per person and from $1 million to $1,875,000 for any single occurrence. The bill also removes the requirement for annual adjustments to these liability limits and establishes that neither political subdivisions nor the state can be held liable for certain claims, including those arising from discretionary functions or injuries caused by individuals not employed by them.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the liability of the state and its employees, stating that the state may only be held liable for money damages resulting from the negligence or wrongful acts of state employees within their scope of employment. It sets a cap on liability at $255,000 per person and $2 million for multiple claims arising from a single occurrence, while also emphasizing that the state cannot be held liable for punitive damages. The effective date for these changes is moved to June 30, 2026, and the bill outlines specific exclusions from liability, including claims related to public duties and natural disasters.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 32-12.1-03, 32-12.2-02
Enrollment: 32-12.1-03, 32-12.2-02