North Dakota
HB 1426: Heightened penalties for riot offences
Increases the penalties imposed for riot offenses. Under the law, participation in a riot is a Class A rather than Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison and a $3,000 fine. Engaging in a riot involving more than 100 people is made a Class B felony, subject to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. (See full text of bill here)
Status: enacted
Introduced 16 Jan 2017; Governor Burgum signed the law on 23 Feb 2017
Issue(s): Riot
North Dakota
HB 1293: Expanded scope of criminal trespass
Expands the scope of criminal trespass activity under state law such that it could encompass protests, demonstrations, or other gatherings on private property, if notice against trespass is "clear from the circumstances." The offense could be punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $1,500 fine. The law also creates an additional, noncriminal trespass offense and allows officers to issue a citation with a $250 fine for trespassing. The law was part of a package of legislation introduced in response to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests.
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See full text of bill here)
Status: enacted
Introduced 12 Jan 2017; Signed by Governor Burgum 23 Feb 2017
Issue(s): Trespass
North Dakota
HB 1304: New penalties for protesters who conceal their identity
Prohibits the wearing of masks, hoods, or other device that "conceals any portion" of an individual's face while committing a criminal offense, in order to avoid recognition or identification. As drafted, the offense could encompass, e.g., individuals wearing hooded clothing while participating in a protest and also committing a minor offense such as jaywalking. Under the law, commission of the offense comprises a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine. (See full text of bill here)
Status: enacted
Introduced 12 Jan 2017; Governor Burgum signed it 23 Feb 2017
Issue(s): Face Covering
