ND · Civil Rights & Disputes

Civil Rights & Disputes in North Dakota

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key North Dakota Law

North Dakota Human Rights Act — NDCC Chapter 14-02.4

North Dakota's Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in employment and public accommodations based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age (40+), physical or mental disability, and status with regard to marriage or public assistance.

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Procedural Details in North Dakota

North Dakota's Department of Labor and Human Rights investigates discrimination complaints. Complaints must be filed within 300 days of the discriminatory act. North Dakota covers employers with 1 or more employees for disability and 15 or more for most other protected classes. North Dakota does not have explicit statewide protections for sexual orientation or gender identity. North Dakota does not have an anti-SLAPP statute. The defamation statute of limitations in North Dakota is two years under NDCC 28-01-18. North Dakota courts apply the zone-of-danger test for negligent infliction of emotional distress.

North Dakota Agencies & Resources

North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights

State agency investigating discrimination complaints under the North Dakota Human Rights Act.

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EEOC Minneapolis Area Office (ND)

Federal agency handling employment discrimination charges for North Dakota workers.

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State Bar Association of North Dakota — Lawyer Referral

Referral service for civil rights attorneys in North Dakota.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does North Dakota protect against discrimination in public assistance status?

Yes. North Dakota's Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on status with regard to public assistance — meaning a person's participation in public assistance programs cannot be used against them in employment or public accommodations decisions.

How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in North Dakota?

Complaints must be filed with the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights within 300 days of the discriminatory act.

Does North Dakota have an anti-SLAPP statute?

No. North Dakota does not have an anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants must rely on standard dispositive motions.

What is the defamation statute of limitations in North Dakota?

Defamation claims in North Dakota must be filed within two years under NDCC 28-01-18.

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By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026