WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SCR 4017

A concurrent resolution directing the Legislative Management to consider studying the detrimental impacts of pornography.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Mark Enget and 4 co-sponsors

North Dakota directs legislative review of pornography's harmful impacts through a state study commission.

Filed with Secretary Of State 04/28
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SCR 4017

Legislative bill overview

SCR 4017 is a concurrent resolution that directs North Dakota's Legislative Management to conduct a study examining the harmful effects of pornography. This is a procedural measure requesting research and analysis rather than enacting new law or regulation.

Why is this important

The resolution signals legislative interest in understanding pornography's potential public health impacts—a topic gaining attention in some state legislatures. Any resulting study could inform future policy decisions on education, regulation, or resource allocation, though the resolution itself creates no immediate legal changes.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope disputes: Disagreement over what content qualifies as "pornography" and which harms to study (mental health, addiction, exploitation, sexual violence correlation, etc.)
  • Research methodology concerns: Questions about whether the study will be evidence-based or driven by particular ideological viewpoints about sexuality and morality
  • First Amendment implications: Free speech advocates may argue studies framing pornography as inherently "detrimental" prejudge constitutional protections for adult content
  • Resource allocation: Critics may question whether state funds should study this topic versus other public health priorities
  • Study design: Uncertainty about whether findings will reflect scientific consensus or predetermined conclusions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.