Bismarck N.D. – The North Dakota Ethics Commission issued two advisory opinions on March 7, 2025. At the request of a lobbyist, Advisory Opinion 24-02 answers two questions:
When an organization hosts an educational conference where attendees pay for their meals, does covering a legislator’s meal cost comply with Article XIV of the North Dakota Constitution, ethics rules in N.D. Admin. Code ch. 115-03-01, and N.D.C.C. chapter 54-66?
Does awarding an acrylic plaque to a legislator at the educational conference create additional ethical concerns or compliance obligations under Article XIV of the North Dakota Constitution, ethics rules in N.D. Admin. Code ch. 115-03-01, and N.D.C.C. chapter 54-66?
At the request of a legislator, Advisory Opinion 24-03 answers one question:
Would a brand partnership, such as gaining social media followers and receiving a pair of jeans from Wrangler, constitute a “political gain” under applicable North Dakota law?
The advisory opinions can be found on the Commission’s website: ADVISORY OPINIONS | Ethics Commission, North Dakota