Governor Burgum signs repeal of Sunday morning shopping restriction

Gov. Doug Burgum released a statement after signing legislation to repeal North Dakota's ban on Sunday morning shopping, commonly referred to as blue laws, on Monday, March 25.

The Senate approved House Bill 1097 last week after the House passed the bill in January. The change in law is effective Aug. 1.

"This legislation supports freedom, fairness and local control," Burgum said. "We trust retailers to decide when it's best to open or not open their businesses, and we trust families and consumers to determine how best to spend their time."

"Repealing this Sunday morning shopping restriction will allow our Main Street businesses to compete on a more level playing field with online retailers and bordering states," the governor added. "Giving retailers the choice to join the grocery stores, gas stations and restaurants that already operate on Sunday mornings will create a fairer business environment."

"North Dakota is filled with people who treasure their close-knit communities, faith traditions and quality family time, and together we will continue to cherish the values that contribute to our state having the best quality of life in the nation," Burgum said.