North Dakota
North Dakota Moves to Protect Crypto ATM Users
Lawmakers in North Dakota have introduced a bill aimed at curbing cryptocurrency fraud and protecting its residents. House Bill 1447 was submitted on January 15 in response to an alarming $6.5 million in crypto-related fraud losses reported by 103 residents in 2023. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Representative Steve Swiontek, seeks to establish measures to safeguard consumers and address vulnerabilities in crypto ATM transactions.
The bill outlines specific restrictions, including a $1,000 daily withdrawal limit on crypto ATMs and a cap on transaction fees at $5 or 3% of the withdrawal amount, whichever is higher. These limits are designed to reduce financial exploitation and ensure fair use of these machines.
Lisa Kruse, commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Financial Institutions, emphasized the importance of these measures, citing the growing number of complaints regarding crypto-related fraud. Speaking to the House Industry, Business, and Labor Committee, Kruse highlighted that crypto scams are becoming more sophisticated, leading to substantial financial losses for the state’s residents.
The situation in North Dakota mirrors national trends. According to an FBI report released in September 2024, Americans lost $5.6 billion to cryptocurrency fraud in 2023. Among these losses, 5,500 cases involved crypto ATMs, with over $189 million in damages. This highlights the need for enhanced consumer protections, particularly in high-risk areas like crypto ATMs, which have become a target for fraudulent schemes.
Representative Steve Swiontek pointed out the security gaps in crypto ATMs compared to traditional banking ATMs. He argued that these vulnerabilities allow criminals to exploit the system for illicit activities, creating a pressing need for regulation.
The proposed bill also addresses the risks faced by older residents, a demographic that is frequently targeted by fraudsters. Josh Askvig, the North Dakota director of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), stressed that protecting elderly residents is a critical aspect of the legislation. Many older individuals are less familiar with cryptocurrency, making them more susceptible to scams. To counter this, the bill mandates that crypto ATMs display clear warnings about potential fraud and encourage users to contact law enforcement if they suspect any fraudulent activity. These warnings would also remind users that funds lost in scams may not be recoverable.
While the bill has garnered support for its consumer protection goals, it has also faced opposition from some crypto ATM operators. During the hearing, Kevin Lolli, a representative of CoinFlip, one of the largest crypto ATM providers in the U.S., raised concerns about the impact of the proposed fee and transaction limits on operators. He explained that the current fees, which range from 8% to 20%, are necessary to cover the costs of hardware, maintenance, and rental payments to businesses hosting the machines. Reducing fees, Lolli argued, could make it financially unfeasible for operators to continue offering services, thereby limiting access to cryptocurrency in North Dakota.
Despite these concerns, Lolli expressed support for the consumer protection aspects of the bill, acknowledging the importance of educating users about potential risks. He argued that striking a balance between consumer safety and the viability of crypto ATM operations is crucial to fostering a sustainable and secure crypto ecosystem.
The proposed legislation is part of a broader effort to address the challenges posed by the rapid growth of cryptocurrency. As adoption increases, so do the risks of fraud and exploitation, especially in areas where regulations are still catching up. North Dakota’s initiative could serve as a model for other states looking to implement similar safeguards.
The debate around House Bill 1447 also raises a critical question: how can regulators effectively protect consumers without stifling innovation in the crypto space? While the restrictions aim to reduce fraud, critics argue that excessive limitations could hinder the growth of the local cryptocurrency industry. Balancing security with accessibility is a challenge that both regulators and industry stakeholders must navigate carefully.
The outcome of North Dakota’s efforts will likely provide valuable insights for other states grappling with similar issues. If the bill is passed, it will establish new standards for crypto ATM operations and offer a layer of protection for residents, particularly those most vulnerable to scams. However, the discussion surrounding this legislation underscores the complexities of regulating a rapidly evolving industry while preserving its core principles of accessibility and innovation.
North Dakota’s approach to addressing crypto fraud is a reminder of the importance of proactive regulation in safeguarding consumers. As the cryptocurrency market continues to grow, initiatives like House Bill 1447 will play a key role in shaping the future of digital finance.
April 20, 1957 – May 2, 2026
Via Miller-Carlin Funeral Home
Steven Privratsky, 69, of Hettinger, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
Steven was born on April 20, 1957, in Dickinson, North Dakota, to Steve and Minnie (Binstock) Privratsky. He was raised on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work, dedication, and family values that he carried with him throughout his life. On June 3, 1977, Steven married the love of his life, Lori Lien, and together they were blessed with three sons: Scott, Mark, and Jason.
Steven was a proud farmer and dedicated many years to raising cattle, planting fields, and cutting hay. Farming was more than a livelihood; it was a way of life he deeply cherished. Steven was also a car enthusiast and a mechanic at heart, and in 1999, he opened Steve’s Service Plus, where he became the town’s trusted mechanic. He took great pride in his work and truly enjoyed visiting with customers, sharing stories, and lending a helping hand.
Above all, Steven’s greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, creating special memories and turning the farm into an “amusement park” with tractor, truck, and skid steer rides. Over the past five years, living closer to family in Minnesota was a true blessing. He treasured attending his grandchildren’s activities and being present for the moments that mattered most.
Steven is survived by his loving wife, Lori; his children, Scott (Carmen) Privratsky of Rice, MN, Mark (Sarah) Privratsky of Eden Prairie, MN, and Jason (Kristin) Privratsky of Grant, MN; seven grandchildren, Makenna, Grant, Benjamin, Luke, Caleb, Logan, and Nolan; his siblings, Delores (Harold) Messmer, Lewis (Linda) Privratsky, Larry Privratsky, Mary Kay (Allen) Whitehead, Debbie (Roy) Hofland, and Jeff Privratsky; and his in-laws, Tony (Bev) Volesky, Sharon (Denis) Wells, Donna Lien, Sandra Lien, Lyle (Pat) Lien, Ruth Klein, Alton (Tammy) Lien, Rita (Bill) Frank, Kevin (Terri) Lien, Carla (Jim) Messer, and Curtis Lien. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Minnie (Binstock) Privratsky; his sister, Betty Jane Volesky; his in-laws, Harold and Dorothy (Shern) Lien, and Linda Privratsky; and his nieces and nephews, Rhonda Starling, Dustin Perfett, Cody Perfett, and Corie Lien.
Steven will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and deep love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Miller-Carlin Funeral Homes, 3013 Roosevelt Road, St. Cloud, Minnesota. A second Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Hettinger Lutheran Church, 904 2nd Avenue South, Hettinger, North Dakota, with visitation at 10:00 AM and funeral service at 11:30 AM, with fellowship and burial to follow.
North Dakota
Connections Tourism: Projects in Wheatland, Mountain and Lakota win North Dakota tourism grants – KVRR Local News
BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR) — A total of $4 million has been awarded to 8 projects in the latest round of grants to boost tourism in North Dakota.
The 2026 cycle of Destination Development Grants saw 103 applications from 61 communities.
Those in our region include $300,000 to help create the new Icelandic Roosthus heritage center in Mountain in Pembina County.
It has been in development for over eight years.
$870,000 to Johnny’s Landing in Wheatland in Cass County which is a lodging development with 14 RV sites and 12 wellness-focused heritage cabins converted from authentic granaries and grain bins.
And $500,000 to The Prairie Experience at The Bins in Lakota in Nelson County.
Three grain bin lodging units will be developed and the project will include agritourism experiences.
This grant program was funded by the legislature to promote tourism and attractions in North Dakota.
North Dakota
HHS recognizes May as Foster Care Awareness Month, highlights role of community in supporting children and families
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is recognizing May as Foster Care Awareness Month, a time to highlight the resilience of children involved in the state’s foster care system and the dedication of those who support them. Read the Foster Care Awareness Month proclamation.
On any given day, about 1,050 children are in foster care in North Dakota. More than 700 licensed foster care providers and nearly 200 relative caregivers open their homes to provide stability and support for children until reunification or another permanent plan can be achieved.
This year’s theme, “It Takes All of Us: Caring for Children, Supporting Families and Strengthening Futures,” emphasizes the importance of strong, collaborative communities in ensuring the safety, well-being and long-term success of children. The theme highlights the role of partnerships across organizations, with families at the center of the work.
Everyone involved in the child welfare system plays a critical role in supporting the safety, permanency and well-being of children in care. This includes relatives, foster care providers, public agencies, juvenile court, child welfare professionals, schools, community service providers and other partners working together to support families and promote reunification whenever possible.
“Foster care is a temporary service designed to ensure child safety while supporting families,” said Chelsea Flory, HHS Children and Family Services director. “May is a time to recognize everyone involved in the child welfare system. This year’s theme highlights the importance of all who play a role in engaging with and supporting families. Together, we strengthen connections and help create brighter, more stable futures.”
Individuals interested in becoming licensed foster care providers are encouraged to call 833-FST-HOME (833-378-4663). For information about providing respite or emergency shelter care, contact the Children and Family Services Licensing Unit at 701-328-2322 or email cfslicensing@nd.gov.
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