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Bill to set beehive setbacks from paved roads draws split testimony from residents, beekeepers and the state
Summary
Senate Bill 23-43 would require setbacks for beehive placement near paved roads and establish penalties; supporters cited road safety and lost honey revenue while hobby and commercial beekeepers, the state apiary inspector and industry groups warned of significant negative impacts and enforcement challenges.
Senator Richard Marshall introduced Senate Bill 23-43 to the committee, citing concerns from constituents about beehives placed near paved roads and the safety and economic impacts of bees striking vehicle windshields. “The reason I introduced this…is at the request of my constituents for motor vehicle operator safety and to increase the beehive revenue,” Marshall said, noting North Dakota’s leading national honey production.
Supporters included local residents who described repeated roadside bee yards and the practical difficulty of filing complaints under current rules. Kevin Herman told the committee some county plats used to record hive locations are not readily accessible to the public and that complaint counts may under-report…
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