On Friday, North Dakota lawmakers presented House Bill 1315, which aims to limit the deployment of state guard soldiers to overseas combat unless Congress formally declares war. Sponsored by Representative Matt Heilman, the bill reflects concerns over the consequences of prolonged military engagements without legislative backing. Contrastingly, Brig. Gen. Mitch Johnson warns that if passed, the measure could weaken North Dakota’s military readiness and drive Guardsmen to seek service in other states. The debate highlights broader questions about military engagement and state-level authority.
Bill details can be found below.
HB 1315
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 37-01 of the North Dakota Century Code; relating to the deployment of the North Dakota national guard; and to declare an emergency.
House Sponsors: Heilman (R, District 7), Hendrix (R, District 10), Hoverson (R, District 3), D. Johnston (R, District 24), Kasper (R, District 46), Marschall (R, District 16), Morton (R, District 46), Nehring (R, District 23), Toman (R, District 34), VanWinkle (R, District 3),
Senate Sponsors: Clemens (R, District 16), Magrum (R, District 8),
