Shaw: Veto this frightening bill, and other thoughts from the North Dakota Legislature - InForum | Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo news, weather and sports

North Dakota Legislation Critiques

Jim Shaw's column criticizes several bills passed by the North Dakota Legislature. He strongly opposes Senate Bill 2307, which would require libraries to hide “obscene” material from minors, arguing it's unnecessary, costly, and infringes on individual choice. He points out the existing process for removing objectionable materials and the bill's disregard for the 85% of testimonies opposing it.

Concerns about Transgender Rights and Property Tax Reform

Shaw also expresses concern over two bills targeting transgender people, calling them discriminatory. He supports Governor Armstrong's stance against the Senate Appropriations Committee's cuts to property tax reforms, advocating for a larger tax credit specifically for North Dakota residents.

Criticism of Fargo Senators and Ethics Commission Funding

He criticizes Fargo Senators for voting to ban the city's approval voting system, despite its popularity. He also notes the House's refusal to increase the staff or extend the investigation period of the North Dakota Ethics Commission, which he views as hindering its effectiveness.

• Key Argument: The need for Governor Armstrong to veto SB 2307 and for more consideration of the rights and needs of all North Dakota citizens.
• Crucial Details: Public opposition to SB 2307, inadequacy of funding for the ethics commission, and the success of approval voting in Fargo.