ND HB1147

Municipal judges may change venue of proceedings upon consideration of convenience to parties and witnesses, judicial efficiency, available facilities, and administration of justice.

Municipal judges cannot change venue if any party to the proceeding objects to the change.

Municipal judges may conduct proceedings through contemporaneous audio or audiovisual transmission by reliable electronic means in accordance with North Dakota Supreme Court Administrative Rule 52.

A municipal judge presiding over a proceeding via reliable electronic means is considered equivalent to a judge physically present at the proceeding.

House passed 92-0 (2 absent); Senate passed 46-0 (1 absent).