McKenzie County Farmer - Latest News

Jeremy Olson
Former District 26 Representative

The 69th Legislative Assembly officially concluded around 4:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, wrapping up a four-month session that began on January 7. It was a long and challenging journey, but your District 26 legislators-Senator Dale Patten and Representatives Jeremy Olson and Roger Maki-worked diligently on your behalf. Over the course of the session, many bills were debated, passed, and signed into law, ensuring that the functions of state government continue to serve the people of North Dakota. Our state constitution allows for 80 legislative days every two years; this session, we used 74, leaving 6 days in reserve should an emergency session be needed. Given the uncertainty at the national level and the potential impact on key funding sources, there is a real possibility we may need to return to Bismarck before the next regular session in 2027 to address unforeseen challenges.

One of the most talked about bills in the session was the property tax bill, House Bill 1176.  A 44-page bill is the final product, which contains many aspects of property tax, but the three main features include:
• Provide up to $1600 property tax credit to primary residences (including those in a trust).
• As legacy fund earnings grow, they will buy down the primary residence taxes even further, potentially a path to zero.
• Provide up to $600 credit for renters.
• All property taxing districts have a 3 percent annual growth cap.

Property tax reform remains one of the most complex and debated issues in state government. Legislators from every corner of North Dakota-from urban centers to rural farmsteads-bring diverse perspectives and priorities to the table. Finding common ground is never easy, but our goal was clear: craft the best solution possible for the greatest number of North Dakotans. In the end, we reached a consensus on a package we believe will deliver meaningful relief and reflect the varied needs of our state.

A deeply personal and meaningful moment this session was the signing of two bills authored by my friend and colleague, the late Representative Josh Christy. Josh passed away unexpectedly in February while still in office. His wife, sister, and daughters traveled to Bismarck for the bill signing ceremony with Governor Armstrong, a moving tribute to Josh’s legacy. His daughters also joined us on the House floor, where a formal tribute was read, recognizing Josh not only for his service but also for his selfless gift as an organ donor. His decision saved lives. Inspired by his example, I recently registered as an organ donor at the North Dakota Department of Motor Vehicles. It’s a simple step that can make a profound difference-I encourage everyone to consider it.

The 69th Legislative Assembly was truly a marathon. The demands of the session-both mentally and physically-are difficult to fully explain unless you’ve lived them. For four months, we step away from our families, careers, and communities to focus entirely on legislative work that impacts the future of our state.  While the work and sacrifices of serving in the legislature were significant for us as lawmakers, our families also shouldered a great deal. They stepped in to manage responsibilities at home, took on additional burdens in our absence, and at times, absorbed the criticism directed at us when we made difficult decisions that didn’t please everyone. Their support made our service possible, and we are deeply grateful.

Serving as House Majority Caucus Leader added a further layer of responsibility, and while I’ve been honored to fill that role, it became clear that continuing to lead the caucus while working full-time outside the Capitol would not serve either role well. In the final weeks of the session, I made the decision to step down from the caucus leadership, allowing my colleagues the opportunity to select a new leader. Leadership requires time, energy, and focus, and our caucus deserves someone who can commit fully to that responsibility.  Additionally, in the days following the session, I made the decision to resign from the ND House of Representatives.  There are just too many distractions happening that I need to focus on my family and work life.  The legislature takes a lot out of a person.  After being away from home many times in the miliary, I wanted to be more present for my family afterwards.  My family and I agreed that the time away from home required to be in the legislature is just too much, so we decided to step down.

As the session concludes, I’m looking forward to reconnecting with daily life-though the transition can be jarring. The intense schedule shifts abruptly, and re-entering family, work, and social life takes adjustment. I’m grateful for the support of my loved ones and community. By the time you read this, I’ll be in Arizona, spending time with my father before we make the drive back to North Dakota together. This trip will give me a chance to rest, reflect, and recharge.
It remains one of the greatest honors of my professional life to serve as your state representative for District 26. Thank you for placing your trust in me this session.

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