Ethics Commission Approves Use of Campaign Funds for Childcare and Security Costs

Bismarck - On Wednesday, the North Dakota Ethics Commission unanimously approved by Advisory Opinion Request that campaign funds may be used for caregiving and for security costs by candidates when campaigning and elected officials when performing their official duties. Assistant Senate Minority Josh Boschee (D-Fargo) made the Advisory Opinion Request in January 2025, and agreed to extensions for the opinion to be provided beyond their required timeline to accommodate their workload during the legislative session. North Dakota is the 40th state to allow campaign funds to be used for childcare costs.

Boschee said, “Too often, people with children at home think that they can’t run for office, but they’re exactly the kind of folks we need in those decision-making roles. Who understands kitchen table issues better than working moms and dads? This opinion will make it easier for folks in caregiver roles—especially North Dakota moms—to run for office.”

Boschee continued, “Personal safety has increasingly become a barrier that people cite for not wanting to run for office. While we must continue to be available to our constituents, it’s clear we need to look at ensuring lawmakers’ safety. I think this opinion will help bring peace of mind to folks who want to run.”