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HB 1479

AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the designation and establishment of North Dakota Constitution Day.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Mike Berg and 9 co-sponsors

Designates Oct 1 as North Dakota Constitution Day to honor the 1889 constitution's adoption and ratification and promote public understanding, with no new costs.

Filed with Secretary Of State 04/16
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Bill Summary · HB 1479

Summary — HB 1479 (North Dakota): Establish North Dakota Constitution Day

Status: Enacted (Filed with Secretary of State 4/16/2025)
Citation: Creates a new section in chapter 1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code
Introduced: November 26, 2024
Primary sponsors (per enrolled bill): Representatives Karls, Berg, Bosch, Dockter, Hauck, Martinson, Nathe; Senators Dever, Gerhardt, Larson

Purpose / Intent

HB 1479 designates October 1 of each year as “North Dakota Constitution Day.” The designation commemorates (1) the adoption of the Constitution of North Dakota by the constitutional convention on August 17, 1889, and (2) its ratification by the people on October 1, 1889. The bill expresses an intent to encourage citizens to increase their knowledge and understanding of the North Dakota Constitution.

Key provisions

  • Adds a new statutory section to chapter 1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code establishing “North Dakota Constitution Day.”
  • Specifies that the first day of October each year is the date of the observance.
  • Recites the historical dates being commemorated (adoption on August 17, 1889; ratification October 1, 1889).
  • States the educational purpose: encouraging greater public knowledge and understanding of the state Constitution.

Who is affected

  • The provision is primarily ceremonial and informational. It:
    • Provides statutory recognition for an annual civic observance.
    • May prompt state agencies, schools, and civic organizations to mark the day with educational activities, events, or curriculum related to the state Constitution.
  • No changes to private legal rights, regulatory regimes, or benefits are created by the text.

Fiscal and administrative impact

  • The bill contains no appropriation, regulatory mandates, or enforcement mechanisms.
  • Expected fiscal impact is minimal to none. Any costs would be incidental (e.g., outreach or educational materials developed voluntarily by agencies or schools).

Procedural / timeline notes

  • Filed: November 26, 2024 (per bill file).
  • Passed both chambers during the 2025 session (enrolled documents show House and Senate passage and enrollment).
  • Noted as Act No. 418 / filed with the Secretary of State on April 16, 2025 (indicating final filing/recording after legislative approval).
  • Effective: upon approval/enactment (no separate delayed effective date provided in the enrolled text).

Bottom line

HB 1479 is a short, symbolic law that formally establishes October 1 as North Dakota Constitution Day to commemorate key 1889 constitutional dates and to promote public education about the state Constitution. It does not create new programs, funding, penalties, or regulatory duties.

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

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