ND SB2071

Amends North Dakota law regarding sexual assault restraining orders by clarifying that hearing deadlines may be extended if the respondent has not been served despite due diligence, or at a later date if good cause is shown.

Modifies disorderly conduct restraining order provisions to allow courts to exclude evidence of activity if a respondent claims the conduct was constitutionally protected and the court determines the claim valid as a matter of law.

Maintains the 14-day deadline for courts to hold hearings after issuing temporary restraining orders in both sexual assault and disorderly conduct cases, with exceptions for written consent of parties or service issues.

Requires courts to find reasonable grounds that the respondent committed sexual assault or engaged in disorderly conduct before granting final restraining orders.

Passed the Senate 46-0 (1 absent) and House 86-0 (8 absent) with Supreme Court request.