News

Gov. Burgum and Congressman Kevin Cramer announced they will begin circulating letters for signature within the House of Representatives and across all 50 states to encourage the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to adopt new spectrum standards so a breakthrough high-speed wireless broadband technology can be made available across the United States, and specifically rural America.

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced the appointment of Judge Jon Jensen to the North Dakota Supreme Court. Jensen’s appointment fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Justice Carol Kapsner. Kapsner, who has served since Nov. 2, 1998, announced her resignation in April after nearly 18 years on the state’s highest court.

Gov. Burgum and State Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring pledged today to use every available tool to help drought-stricken ranchers outlast the current crisis and protect North Dakotans affected by intensifying wildfires. The governor signed an executive order to assist the transport of hay, water and livestock and announced additional funding for a livestock water supply cost-share program.

Gov. Doug Burgum today received notification that a presidential disaster declaration has been issued for the 10 counties and Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Reservation that were affected by spring flooding.

Gov. Burgum has signed an executive order waiving hours of service restrictions for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay, water and livestock to help livestock producers battling harsh drought conditions. The order also eases weight limits for those hauling hay and water to support drought-stricken ranchers.

Gov. Burgum has appointed Cass County prosecutor Cherie Clark and Devils Lake attorney Michael Hurly to district judgeships, effective Aug. 7.

Gov. Burgum has appointed Thomas Sorel, a former Minnesota Department of Transportation commissioner with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, to lead the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) starting Aug. 7.

Gov. Doug Burgum today amended his June 22 Executive Order on drought assistance for livestock producers, expanding coverage by five counties in response to the June 29 U.S. Drought Monitor.

Gov. Burgum said the move to rescind the “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) rule is "a welcome step toward a rule recognizing that states are best positioned to protect, manage and regulate their own waters."

Gov. Burgum's executive order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan and authorizes the adjutant general of the North Dakota National Guard to activate the Guard if needed to support local and tribal governments.