Public Comment Period Mandated for North Dakota Board Meetings
By Michael Achterling
BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) — Beginning August 1, all public boards in North Dakota will be mandated to include a public comment period during their meetings, following the passage of Senate Bill 2180. Signed into law by Governor Kelly Armstrong on April 30, the bill applies to local subdivisions, school districts, park districts, and water resource boards, requiring these organizations to provide attendees with the opportunity to voice their concerns.
Senate Bill 2180 allows boards to set limits on the duration of the entire comment period and the speaking time for individual participants, focusing discussions on agenda items from the current or previous meetings. Senator Jose Castaneda, R-Minot, who chaired the bill’s conference committee, emphasized that these new regulations establish a minimum standard for public engagement.
The legislation emerged in response to public outcry regarding the inadequate provision for public feedback at meetings. Karen Krenz from Williston, who supported the bill, articulated frustrations that her local school board’s restrictions stifled community input. “As taxpayers, we should have the opportunity to contribute our input during public meetings,” she stated, expressing concerns that limited comments could lead to policies misaligned with community needs.
Under the new law, public comment policies crafted by boards must ensure that remarks are relevant and do not disrupt meeting order. Comments deemed defamatory, abusive, or unlawful are explicitly prohibited. Senator Chuck Walen, R-New Town, a former school board member, endorsed the bill, contending it strikes an effective balance between allowing public input and maintaining meeting efficiency.
Previous drafts of the bill proposed stricter limitations, suggesting public comment periods only at select meetings. The current legislation, now in effect, promises to enhance democratic participation in local governance.
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