North Dakota 2026 1st Special Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SB2404

Introduced
1/21/26  
Refer
1/21/26  
Report Pass
1/21/26  
Engrossed
1/22/26  
Refer
1/22/26  
Report Pass
1/22/26  
Enrolled
1/23/26  

Caption

AN ACT to provide appropriations to the information technology department and public service commission; to provide contingent loan authorization; and to provide an effective date.

Impact

The bill's provisions aim to significantly improve the digital infrastructure within the state by ensuring that state websites are accessible to all. This move is expected to facilitate greater engagement and interaction between the state and its citizens, particularly those with disabilities. Additionally, it provides $325,000 for the Public Service Commission to support federal lawsuit intervention efforts, indicating a proactive approach toward legal challenges that may arise due to federal regulations.

Summary

Senate Bill 2404 is primarily focused on appropriating funds for the Information Technology Department and the Public Service Commission in North Dakota. It allocates a one-time funding of $1,500,000 intended for updating state-controlled websites and ensuring compliance with digital accessibility provisions mandated by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. This initiative highlights the state's commitment to improving digital access for individuals with disabilities, thereby enhancing the usability of online state resources and services for all citizens.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB2404 is positive, particularly among advocates for disability rights and accessibility. They view this bill as a step forward in inclusivity, highlighting the importance of accessible digital information in promoting equality. Legislative discussions have shown broad bipartisan support, reflecting a shared understanding that compliance with accessibility standards is essential in today’s digital age, which is generally seen as a positive initiative for community welfare.

Contention

While there appears to be strong support for the bill, some concerns may arise regarding the effective allocation and management of the allocated funds. Questions about whether the funding will adequately cover the necessary updates and if the objectives of compliance will be met within the proposed timeline are potential points of contention. Moreover, the financial implications of ongoing maintenance and future accessibility needs might also be subjects for further scrutiny as discussions continue.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB1008

The salaries of the public service commissioners and deposits of special fuels excise taxes; and to provide loan authorization.

ND SCR4015

The election of public service commissioners; to provide for application; and to provide an effective date.

ND HB1249

A BILL for an Act to provide appropriations to the attorney general, the department of career and technical education, the department of health and human services, and the agriculture commissioner for autonomous technology grants; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide a report.

ND HB1427

Authorization for the public service commission to regulate the siting compatibility for data centers; and to provide a penalty.

ND SB2021

Membership of the information technology committee and the information technology operating fund; to provide an exemption; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide for a legislative management report.

ND SB2054

The master jury list; and to provide a contingent effective date.

ND SB2226

The commission on legal counsel for indigents; to provide an appropriation; and to provide an effective date.

ND HB1308

Duties of the human trafficking commission and immunity for reporting human trafficking; to provide a continuing appropriation; and to provide a contingent effective date.

ND SB2192

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for accreditation grants for community providers.

ND SB2214

The insurance commissioner assuming the duties of the securities commissioner; to provide for a transfer; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.

Similar Bills

MD SB282

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB390

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2027)

MD HB350

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

MD SB319

Budget Bill (Fiscal Year 2026)

PA HB1330

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of certain agencies of the Executive Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

PA SB160

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB280

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024.

PA SB1161

To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.