Following several failed attempts, it looks as though North Dakota's Sunday blue laws are about to become history.

As the Bismarck Tribune reports, the State Senate voted this week to repeal the long-standing laws restricting certain from stores from opening for business on Sunday mornings.

Even now, it was a close call. The vote this week was 25 - 21 in favor of repeal. A number of senators were adamant in their opposition of the repeal, citing "religious" concerns.

Governor Doug Burgum has indicated that he will sign the bill into law.

The next question: how will the rollback of the state blue laws affect the Sunday shopping experience?

Probably not as much as you think. The owners of many businesses, such as Boutique 23 in Bismarck, say that while they already open for a few hours on Sundays, they have no intention of expanding their hours.

The obvious exception will be the local Wal-Marts, which up to now have opened at noon on Sundays.

 

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