Bill proposed to change notification process for ND Beef Commission elections

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Ranchers could soon get more of a heads-up when it’s time to apply for the North Dakota Beef Commission.

House Bill 1275 would change the notification process to alert people when they’re able to apply to be recommended to the governor for placement on the commission.

Members are appointed by the governor. In years when an at-large representative’s term is scheduled to expire, the bill would require the commission to publish a notification of the position opening in every county’s newspaper once a month between March 1 and May 1.

“We think that this enhances the current Beef Commission process, makes some more awareness and transparency about opportunities that exist within the mechanism,” said Julie Ellingson with the ND Stockmen’s Association.

Julie Ellingson anticipates the bill would cost the state about $5,400. Those opposed say it doesn’t improve transparency in the selection process. And they believe the notification of the position needs to be posted in other places besides the newspaper and North Dakota Beef Commission website. They’re also concerned the requirement in the bill of posting the notification from March 1 to May 1 occurs during the busiest part of the year for ranchers, decreasing the likelihood that ranchers will see the notification.