AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 54-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to designating rhubarb as the official state vegetable.
Summary
House Bill 1334 designates rhubarb, specifically Rheum rhabarbarum, as the official vegetable of the state of North Dakota. The bill creates a new section in Chapter 54-02 of the North Dakota Century Code to establish that state symbol, with no additional regulatory, funding, or programmatic provisions.
In practical terms, the measure is largely ceremonial and symbolic. It adds rhubarb to North Dakota’s list of official state emblems and does not alter private conduct, tax policy, licensing, or agency authority. The bill was enacted and filed with the Secretary of State after passing both chambers.
Impact
HB 1334 amends state law by adding a new section to Chapter 54-02 of the North Dakota Century Code establishing rhubarb as the official state vegetable. Its legal effect is limited to state-symbol designation and does not create enforcement mechanisms, appropriations, or substantive obligations for residents, businesses, or state agencies.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment appears generally favorable, especially in the House, where the bill passed comfortably 81-11. Support was narrower in the Senate, where it passed 24-22, indicating a more divided view in the upper chamber. The voting pattern suggests the bill was viewed by many as a lighthearted or symbolic measure, but not unanimously so.
Contention
The main point of contention was not the policy impact, which is minimal, but whether the Legislature should spend time on a symbolic designation. The close Senate vote indicates some senators were unconvinced or indifferent to making rhubarb an official state vegetable, while House support was much stronger. No committee testimony is available, so the record does not show any substantive policy objections beyond the symbolic nature of the bill.