The proposed amendments to the North Dakota Century Code seek to restructure the state gaming commission and redefine the role of the attorney general in overseeing games of chance. Key changes include a redefined composition of the gaming commission, which will now consist of a chairman (the governor or their designee) and four appointed members, ensuring representation from various licensed organizations and communities. The commission is required to meet quarterly and establish rules to promote fair gaming practices and proper use of gaming proceeds. Additionally, the amendments enhance the attorney general's authority, allowing for inspections of gaming sites and equipment, civil actions to collect overdue fees, and the referral of violations to the gaming commission for further action.

The bill also introduces a new provision for individuals to appeal orders or actions taken by the attorney general to the office of administrative hearings, with a thirty-day window for filing appeals. A one-time appropriation of $25,000 from the general fund is allocated to support the gaming commission's operations for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025. Furthermore, the terms of current gaming commission members will end on June 30, 2025, to allow for staggered terms for new appointees, with initial terms for three of the four new members set to one year. Overall, these amendments aim to strengthen the regulatory framework for gaming operations in North Dakota, ensuring accountability and compliance with gaming regulations.

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