The North Dakota Ethics Commission implemented an exception to the lobbyist gift ban that now allows a lobbyist to purchase food or beverage valued at 10 dollars or less, excluding gratuity, for a public official in conjunction with an informal social and educational event. The food and beverage must be consumed at the event, and a state resident must be present but is not required to purchase the food and beverage.

Previously, an exception to the lobbyist gift ban for food and drink existed only in conjunction with public or private social and educational events, which require formal notice to be given to the Commission in advance of the event. No notice is required under the new rule.

The new rule went into effect immediately upon its approval at the Commission’s July 28 meeting.