AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the designation of Prisoner of War and Missing in Action Day as a state holiday.
Summary
HB 1403 creates a new section of the North Dakota Century Code establishing the third Friday in September each year as Prisoner of War and Missing in Action Day. The bill directs the governor to issue an annual proclamation recognizing the day as a state holiday in honor of those who were held captive and returned, as well as those who remain missing.
The measure is primarily commemorative and does not create a mandatory closure day. The bill expressly states that it may not be interpreted to require schools or other entities to close, so it functions as an official observance and proclamation-based holiday rather than an operational state shutdown.
Impact
HB 1403 amends chapter 1-03 of the North Dakota Century Code by adding a new state observance tied to POW/MIA recognition. Its legal effect is to require an annual gubernatorial proclamation and to formally place the observance in state law, while also clarifying that the designation does not impose closure requirements on schools, businesses, or other entities.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have enjoyed broad, bipartisan support and little to no opposition. It passed the House 93-0 and the Senate 47-0, indicating unanimous approval in both chambers. The lack of recorded committee discussion or dissent suggests the measure was viewed as a respectful ceremonial recognition rather than a controversial policy change.
Contention
There is no notable recorded contention in the available materials. The only substantive policy point embedded in the bill is the clarification that the holiday does not require schools or other entities to close, which likely addresses any concern about unintended operational impacts. Otherwise, the bill’s purpose is symbolic and commemorative, and the voting record shows no opposition.