The proposed amendments to the North Dakota Century Code aim to restructure the state gaming commission and enhance the regulatory authority of the attorney general regarding games of chance. Key changes include a redefined composition of the gaming commission, which will now consist of the governor or their designee as chairman, four members appointed by the governor with Senate consent, and two additional members appointed by legislative leaders. The commission is required to meet quarterly, and new qualifications for members emphasize residency and good character. Additionally, the commission is granted expanded authority to adopt rules for the gaming industry, including standards for recordkeeping and internal controls.

The amendments also bolster the powers of the attorney general, allowing for inspections of gaming sites and equipment, the ability to seize items for examination, and the initiation of civil actions to collect overdue fees or fines. The attorney general is required to refer evidence of violations to the gaming commission and can seek declaratory or injunctive relief against noncompliance with gaming laws. The bill introduces a process for individuals to appeal orders or actions taken by the attorney general to the office of administrative hearings, which must conduct hearings within thirty days. Additionally, it appropriates $25,000 from the general fund to support the operations of the gaming commission for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, and establishes staggered terms for newly appointed commission members.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 53-01-02, 53-01-03, 53-01-07, 53-01-09, 53-01-19, 53-06.1-01, 53-06.1-01.1, 53-06.1-03, 53-06.1-06, 53-06.1-10, 53-06.1-11, 53-06.1-11.2, 53-06.1-12, 53-06.1-12.3, 53-06.1-12.4, 53-06.1-14, 53-06.1-15.1, 53-06.2-01, 53-06.2-04, 53-06.2-04.1, 53-06.2-07, 53-06.2-10.1, 53-12.1-01, 53-12.1-02, 53-12.1-03, 53-12.1-04, 53-12.1-09, 53-12.1-11, 53-12.1-13
Adopted by the House Judiciary Committee: 53-06.1-01.1, 53-06.1-15.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 53-06.1-01.1, 53-06.1-15.1
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Koppelman: 53-06.1-01.1, 53-06.1-15.1