Right to Read North Dakota applauds Governor Kelly Armstrong for vetoing Senate Bill 2307 and the North Dakota Senate for sustaining his veto today, finally putting an end to this unnecessary, unworkable, and unconstitutional bill.

In a thoughtful and powerful veto message, Governor Armstrong clearly explained why SB 2307 would have been detrimental to North Dakota. The bill imposed vague and punitive requirements on librarians and educators, exposed libraries and local governments to excessive legal risks. It undermined local control by allowing outside influences to dictate policies. We are grateful for the Governor's leadership in defending the First Amendment, safeguarding taxpayer dollars, and affirming that decisions about what children read should be made by parents and communities, not the government.

We also thank the Senators who upheld the veto for recognizing that SB 2307 was not only redundant and burdensome but also harmful to the very foundation of our communities. Their support demonstrates true wisdom and a commitment to North Dakota’s long-standing tradition of small government, local decision-making, and individual freedom.

While the bill has been defeated, we cannot overlook the damage caused by the rhetoric surrounding SB 2307. Throughout this debate, librarians and educators—trusted public servants across our state—have faced an onslaught of misinformation, vilification, and personal attacks. This hostile environment has caused real harm, and it must come to an end.

We call on Governor Armstrong, legislative leadership, and all elected officials to de-escalate the situation. It is time to move away from inflammatory accusations and work toward rebuilding public trust in our libraries, schools, and the professionals who serve our communities with integrity every day.

The emotional and professional toll of SB 2307 on library workers across North Dakota is significant. We must now stand by them as they continue their vital work, free from the fear of criminalization or political retaliation.

With the defeat of SB 2307, North Dakota can move ahead. As Governor Armstrong rightly stated, decisions about what children read should be made by parents—not the government. Taxpayer dollars and public attention can now be directed towards areas that need it most: improving education, strengthening communities, and protecting constitutional rights.

Right to Read North Dakota remains committed to protecting intellectual freedom, local control, and the rights of every North Dakotan to access a broad and diverse range of ideas and information.

We thank all the advocates, librarians, parents, educators, and elected officials who stood strong against SB 2307.