Supporters say the bill protects Second Amendment rights, but opponents say it takes away a tool that could prevent gun violence, like the July 14, 2023, shooting that killed a Fargo officer.

BISMARCK — Funding for North Dakota public broadcasting is under threat from a new bill introduced to the Legislature with an outpouring of online testimony unanimously opposed to the bill. House Bill 1255 would ban the government from using any funds to directly or indirectly support public broadcasting.

In a 31-to-15 vote, Senators in Bismarck passed a bill that would limit North Dakota Game and Fish’s power to ban baiting. Senate Bill 2137 will move to the North Dakota house. If passed, it would stop NDGF from implementing rules keeping private landowners from using supplemental feed on their property.

A bill preventing policies that would limit the use of baiting for big game animals on private property passed the Senate floor Wednesday on a 31-15 vote. Senate Bill 2137 would prohibit the North Dakota Department of Game and Fish from creating rules and policies on using bait for wildlife.

Supporters of the bill say that baiting bans infringe on private property rights and are based on needless fears over the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

In a 31-to-15 vote, Senate Bill 2137 moves to the House. If passed, it would keep NDGF from implementing rules keeping private landowners from using supplemental feed on their property.