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HB 1142

AN ACT to amend and reenact sections 32-12.1-03 and 32-12.2-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the statutory caps for liability of political subdivisions and the state; and to provide an effective date.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Kristin Roers and 4 co-sponsors

North Dakota adjusts statutory liability caps for government entities and political subdivisions, modifying maximum lawsuit payouts residents can recover from state and local governments.

Filed with Secretary Of State 03/24
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1142

Legislative bill overview

HB 1142 amends North Dakota's statutory liability caps for political subdivisions (municipalities, counties, school districts) and the state government itself. The bill modifies sections 32-12.1-03 and 32-12.2-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, which establish maximum dollar amounts that these entities can be held liable for in lawsuits. The specific changes to the liability cap amounts are not detailed in this legislative summary.

Why is this important

Liability caps directly affect residents' ability to recover damages when harmed by government negligence or misconduct. Raising caps increases potential compensation for injured parties; lowering them limits financial exposure for taxpayers and government budgets. These thresholds balance accountability with fiscal sustainability, influencing both risk management decisions by government entities and insurance costs funded by taxpayers.

Potential points of contention

  • Transparency of amounts: The actual new liability cap figures are not specified in this summary, making it difficult to assess whether changes are substantial or modest
  • Adequacy of compensation: Plaintiffs' advocates may argue caps prevent full recovery for serious injuries, while government entities may argue higher caps increase taxpayer burden
  • Equity concerns: Different cap levels for different government entities (state vs. municipalities) create inconsistent protection standards across the state

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

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