This bill proposes significant changes to the Sunday closing laws in North Dakota by introducing new regulations and penalties. It establishes that engaging in business or labor for profit on Sundays between midnight and noon is a class B misdemeanor, with certain exemptions for individuals observing a different Sabbath. Additionally, the bill outlines a comprehensive list of items that are prohibited from sale or rental during these hours, including various types of clothing, furniture, appliances, and tools, while allowing exceptions for hobby shows, craft fairs, and certain tourist attractions.

Furthermore, the bill specifies businesses that are permitted to operate on Sundays, such as restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and various service industries, while also allowing local governing bodies to adjust employee limits for certain businesses. It amends existing law to clarify that retail businesses cannot be mandated to open on Sundays as part of lease or franchise agreements made after January 1, 2019, with violations classified as a class A misdemeanor. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and clarify the regulations surrounding Sunday business operations in the state.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-30-04