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HB 1064

AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 15-18.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the national council for state authorization reciprocity agreements membership; to amend and reenact sections 15-18.1-01, 15-18.1-02, 15-18.1-05, 15-18.1-06, and 15-18.1-10, and subsection 4 of section 15-18.1-13 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to postsecondary education institution standards; and to repeal section 15-18.1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the authorization of a postsecondary educational institution not operating in this state.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26)

North Dakota joins multistate reciprocity compact for distance education authorization, streamlining out-of-state program approval while ceding some regulatory authority to NC-SARA.

Filed with Secretary Of State 04/11
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Bill Summary · HB 1064

Legislative bill overview

HB 1064 modernizes North Dakota's postsecondary education authorization framework by joining the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), a multistate compact that streamlines approval for distance education programs. The bill amends existing authorization standards in Chapter 15-18.1 and repeals outdated provisions governing out-of-state institutions.

Why is this important

This legislation affects students, educators, and institutions across state lines by reducing regulatory barriers to distance learning while maintaining consumer protections. It allows North Dakota residents to access accredited distance education programs from other SARA member states without separate state authorization, and enables North Dakota institutions to operate distance programs in other member states more efficiently.

Potential points of contention

  • Reduced state oversight: Joining SARA means North Dakota delegates some authorization authority to a multistate body, potentially limiting the state's unilateral control over which programs operate within its borders
  • Consumer protection standards: SARA's baseline protections may differ from North Dakota's previous standards; repealing section 15-18.1-03 removes specific safeguards for out-of-state institutions
  • Institutional compliance costs: While SARA reduces some barriers, institutions must meet NC-SARA standards, which could require new compliance infrastructure for some providers

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

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