North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1370

Introduced
1/13/25  
Refer
1/13/25  
Report DNP
2/7/25  
Refer
2/10/25  

Caption

Onsite screening tests and administrative hearings for refusing to submit to a chemical test.

Impact

The amendments specified in HB1370 provide clarity on what constitutes reasonable grounds for law enforcement requests for testing and the circumstances under which individuals may refuse to submit to screenings. Moreover, the bill outlines the consequences of refusal, which could include revocation of driving privileges ranging from 180 days to three years, with specific guidelines on how the revocation process will be managed, including the availability of hearings and judicial reviews.

Summary

House Bill 1370 introduces amendments to existing laws in North Dakota concerning the procedures for onsite screening tests and administrative hearings linked to refusals of chemical tests. The bill states that any individual operating a motor vehicle is deemed to have given consent for onsite screening tests which can assess the presence of alcohol or drugs. Law enforcement officers must have reasonable grounds to believe that a violation has occurred to request such tests, ensuring a basis for their potential actions.

Contention

While this bill seeks to streamline procedures related to alcohol and drug testing for drivers, it may face debate regarding the implications for personal rights and the powers of law enforcement. Critics may argue that mandatory testing could infringe on individual freedoms, especially concerning how tests are administered and the rationale behind law enforcement's authority in these situations. Supporters may advocate for the public safety benefits of the bill and its role in addressing impaired driving more effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB754

Implied consent; revise suspension period during appeals for refusal to submit to chemical test.

ND HB129

Midwives; administration of certain newborn screening tests authorized

ND S3098

Gives the Rhode Island traffic tribunal jurisdiction to hear first offense refusals to submit to a chemical test pursuant to the Alcohol Boating Safety Act.

ND S2403

Requires that the license plates of a vehicle be confiscated by a police officer if the owner was arrested for driving while their license was suspended, revoked or cancelled for refusing to submit to a chemical test or for operating under the influence.

ND S0214

Requires that the license plates of a vehicle be confiscated by a police officer if the owner was arrested for driving while their license was suspended, revoked or cancelled for refusing to submit to a chemical test or for operating under the influence.

ND A543

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

ND S2447

Requires school bus drivers to submit to biannual testing for drugs and alcohol.

ND H7489

Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the interlock systems.

ND H6211

Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the interlock systems.

ND S1016

Requires persons convicted of driving under influence or refusal to submit to chemical test, have an ignition interlock system installed in vehicle as part of sentence and to pay an assessment to pay for the interlock systems.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.