Policy Outlook Summary: ​Strengthening North Dakota’s Insurance Landscape

GNDC hosted an Insurance Policy Outlook on November 4, bringing together business leaders and policymakers to examine North Dakota’s evolving insurance environment. The conversation was led by Andrea Pfennig, GNDC Vice President of Government Affairs, featuring insights from Jon Godfread, North Dakota Insurance & Securities Commissioner and President of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
 
BOTTOM LINE: North Dakota’s insurance system is stable but at an inflection point. Through collaboration, modernization, and data-driven policy, GNDC and state leaders aim to strengthen market competitiveness, consumer confidence, and economic resilience statewide.
 
BREAK IT DOWN:
>> Market Strengths and Structural Challenges
North Dakota’s insurance market remains strong and stable, underpinned by deep relationships between carriers and agents. However, Commissioner Godfread noted several challenges: limited competition, catastrophe risks from severe weather, and workforce shortages in actuarial, cybersecurity, and data science roles. He emphasized the importance of modernizing building codes and incentivizing resilient construction to reduce loss exposure and maintain market stability.
 
>> Health Insurance and Affordability Risks
Roughly 47,000 North Dakotans purchase health coverage through the ACA marketplace, with 35,000 relying on federal subsidies. As enhanced tax credits near expiration, Godfread cautioned that premium increases could destabilize the market and increase uncompensated care costs. He called for greater state authority to tailor health insurance regulation and maintain affordability.
 
>> Healthcare Mandates and Business Engagement
Commissioner Godfread cautioned against expanding mandated coverages or adding new restrictions on insurers, noting that such requirements often increase costs and limit flexibility for both employers and consumers. Instead, he urged policymakers to prioritize data transparency and cost analysis before introducing new mandates.
 
He emphasized that businesses play a vital role in shaping sustainable healthcare policy. Employers can help identify the real-world impacts of rising healthcare costs, contribute data insights, and advocate for reforms that balance coverage quality with affordability. Active engagement from North Dakota’s business community—through GNDC’s policy efforts—ensures that healthcare solutions remain market-driven rather than regulation-heavy, preserving flexibility for employers of all sizes.
 
>> We appreciate Commissioner Jon Godfread for taking the time to engage with GNDC members—providing data, accessibility, and thoughtful responses to member questions.