News Releases

Gov. Doug Burgum emphasized the importance of timely completion of flood protection projects for the Fargo and Minot areas during an update from top regional U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials at the Capitol in Bismarck.

Gov. Doug Burgum, Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford and Maj. Gen. Alan Dohrmann, adjutant general of the North Dakota National Guard, surveyed tornado damage in Watford City on Tuesday evening, July 10, and met with local officials and residents displaced by the storm to discuss local response efforts and needs.

Gov. Doug Burgum will travel to Watford City this afternoon to survey an RV park devastated by a tornado last night and to meet with local response officials and residents displaced by the storm.

Gov. Doug Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford today applauded the launch of the first trans-Atlantic flight of a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft from the Grand Sky commercial UAS business and aviation park.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum, in partnership with the North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Behavioral Health Division, have announced the speaker lineup for Recovery Reinvented on Sept. 5 in Fargo.

Gov. Doug Burgum issued a statement in commemoration of the 242nd anniversary of America’s independence.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum, in partnership with the North Dakota Department of Human Services’ Behavioral Health Division, are inviting the general public, Native American communities, business and community leaders, behavioral health providers, university and college representatives, health care providers and administrators, addiction recovery advocates, faith-based communities, first responders, law enforcement, families and more to attend “Recovery Reinvented” on Sept. 5 in Fargo.

The Western Governors’ Association elected North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum as vice chairman for the 2018-2019 year, on the final day of the association’s three-day annual meeting in Rapid City.

Gov. Doug Burgum applauded the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that online retailers can be required to collect sales taxes in states where they lack a physical presence, calling it a win for Main Street that levels the playing field between remote sellers and brick-and-mortar businesses.

Gov. Doug Burgum urged the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to clearly and promptly communicate changes in the amount of water being released from Garrison Dam, and to take the necessary steps to prevent flooding as much as possible, as the Corps announced it will step up releases to 60,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) by Saturday, raising the river in Bismarck to within 1.5 feet of flood stage.

Three people involved in education in North Dakota were recently invited to attend the first-of-its-kind State-Federal Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Education Summit hosted by The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) on June 25-26, 2018, in Washington, D.C.

Gov. Doug Burgum met with Canada’s Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, Amarjeet Sohi, to discuss trade, agriculture and other topics at the Capitol in Bismarck. 

Gov. Doug Burgum, State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler and education leaders from across the state highlighted the progress made during the past year to transform education in North Dakota at the second annual Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education at Northern Cass School near Hunter.

Gov. Doug Burgum will welcome teachers, students, school administrators and community leaders to the second annual Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education on Thursday, June 7, at Northern Cass School near Hunter.

Gov. Doug Burgum appointed Devils Lake attorney Daniel Traynor, New Rockford-Sheyenne Superintendent Jill Louters and Williston State College student Ashley Thornton to the North Dakota Board of Higher Education.

Gov. Doug Burgum and Labor Commissioner and Job Service North Dakota Executive Director Michelle Kommer announced a new survey asking North Dakota’s employers to identify their most pressing workforce issues. Survey results will provide valuable input for workforce development recommendations to the governor.

Gov. Doug Burgum released a statement in observance of Memorial Day, after attending and delivering remarks at the Memorial Day ceremony at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery near Mandan.

In observance of Memorial Day, Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Monday until noon, and North Dakotans are encouraged to do the same at their homes and businesses.

Gov. Doug Burgum today expressed his gratitude and support for efforts by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to address the deferred maintenance backlog at Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Tuesday, May 22, and encourages North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, as a mark of solemn respect for the victims of today’s shooting at Santa Fe High School in Texas.

Gov. Burgum appointed North Dakota Highway Patrol Maj. Brandon Solberg to oversee the agency, citing his proven leadership experience and history of both field and administrative roles during his more than 22 years in law enforcement.

Gov. Doug Burgum expressed his congratulations to Kathryn Slavick of Mandan High School and Benjamin Berdal of May-Port CG High School, who have been selected to attend the 2018 National Youth Science Camp. 

Gov. Doug Burgum has directed government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Tuesday, May 15, 2018, and encouraged North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum are inviting the general public, American Indian communities, business and community leaders, behavioral health providers, university and college representatives, health care providers and administrators, addiction recovery advocates, faith-based communities, first responders, law enforcement, families and more to join them for Recovery Reinvented on Sept. 5 at the Fargo Civic Center.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao announced that the North Dakota Department of Transportation has been selected as one of 10 participants in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Integration Pilot Program, an initiative aimed at shaping the future of drones in America.

Gov. Doug Burgum proclaimed May 4 Arbor Day in North Dakota and marked the occasion with a memorial tree planting on the Capitol grounds to honor World War I veterans as the nation observes the end of the war 100 years ago.

 Gov. Doug Burgum  announced the creation of the K-12 Education Innovators Fellowship, a partnership between Burgum and the Governor’s Office, state Superintendent Kirsten Baesler and the Department of Public Instruction, “What School Could Be” author Ted Dintersmith and educational leaders from across the state.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum today expressed their gratitude and support for efforts by U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions and the Trump administration to end the nation’s opioid epidemic.

Gov. Burgum met with Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke in Washington, D.C., discussing a number of issues of importance to North Dakota, as Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford participated in a meeting in Bismarck to work toward improving gas capture and right-of-way processes on federal lands.

The Addiction Policy Forum is honoring First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum with its Pillar of Excellence award for her advocacy work with addiction and recovery.

Gov. Doug Burgum designated 25 areas in North Dakota as Opportunity Zones under a community development incentive program established by the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

Gov. Doug Burgum outlined his strategic budget direction for the State of North Dakota during the 2019-2021 biennium, announcing a new approach that places greater emphasis on finding efficiencies, reinventing processes and incenting collaboration between agencies.

Gov. Doug Burgum honored about 200 North Dakota Army National Guard soldiers who recently returned from a yearlong mission in Washington, D.C., protecting the airspace around the nation’s capital.

Gov. Burgum issued a statement after meeting on trade and agricultural issues with President Donald Trump, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and other governors and congressional leaders at the White House.

Gov. Burgum will meet with President Donald Trump and other governors and congressional leaders on Thursday, April 12, to discuss issues impacting the agricultural community, including trade.

More than 500 people attended A Day for Prevention, a first-of-its-kind event for North Dakota that brought together national, regional and state experts to discuss public policies, strategies and resources that work to prevent substance abuse.

Gov. Burgum  announced the 2018 Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education is now open for registration. The summit will take place June 7 at Northern Cass School near Arthur and Hunter.

Gov. Burgum thanked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt for making North Dakota the first state to receive final approval to regulate geologic storage of carbon dioxide.

Gov. Doug Burgum, First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford will join hundreds of North Dakotans and national, regional and state experts on Wednesday, April 11, to discuss public policies, strategies and resources that work to prevent substance abuse.

Gov.  Burgum issued a statement regarding China’s proposed tariffs on more than 100 U.S. products, including agricultural commodities such as soybeans, wheat, corn, sorghum and beef.

Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford joined Minot area officials  to break ground on the first three phases of the Mouse River Enhanced Flood Protection Project, highlighting the state’s significant financial commitment to the project.

Gov. Burgum welcomed Vice President Mike Pence to Fargo for an event highlighting the positive impacts of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on the American economy.

Gov. Burgum announced the Mandan High School Concert Band and the Wahpeton High School Choir as the 2017-2018 Governor’s Official State Band and Chorus.

Gov. Burgum has announced the members of the Office of Recovery Reinvented Advisory Council, which will support strategic efforts to strengthen recovery services and eliminate the shame and stigma of the disease of addiction in North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum, State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler, Chief Information Officer Shawn Riley and other officials announced a 100-gigabit upgrade to the state network that will put North Dakota schools and government on the nation’s leading edge of internet connectivity and speed.

Gov. Burgum encouraged North Dakotans to consider applying for two openings on the State Board of Higher Education, which sets policy for the North Dakota University System and oversees the state’s 11 public colleges and universities.

Gov. Burgum released a statement after the North Dakota Supreme Court heard arguments in a lawsuit brought by the state Legislature challenging the governor’s veto authority related to vetoes issued at the end of the 2017 legislative session.

Gov. Burgum has directed all state agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Friday, March 16, as a mark of respect for the memory of former North Dakota Gov. George “Bud” Sinner, who passed away Friday at age 89.

Gov. Burgum has issued a statement on the passing of former North Dakota Gov. George Sinner.

Gov. Burgum and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring thanked U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue for his help during last year’s drought and advised that this year could be even more stressful for North Dakota farmers and livestock producers, with multiple state agencies already preparing and coordinating their responses in case drought conditions worsen.

Gov. Burgum joined U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue during his visit to Fargo, underscoring the importance of a strong farm bill and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) for North Dakota’s farmers and ranchers.

Due to deteriorating weather and road conditions, state offices in Bismarck closed at 3 p.m. today. At this time, normal business hours are expected for Tuesday, March 6. 

Gov. Burgum has appointed 12 members to the North Dakota Rural Development Council, which he reconvened in December to support the development of rural communities across the state through collaboration between government and the nonprofit and private sectors.

Gov. Burgum  announced North Dakota will participate in the newly created Opportunity Zones Program, a community development incentive established by the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.

Gov. Burgum released the following statement after U.S. Sen. John Hoeven announced that U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue will visit North Dakota next week.

First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum attended the White House Opioids Summit, which featured leaders from the Trump administration and Capitol Hill highlighting progress that’s been made to address the opioid crisis since the President declared it a public health emergency last October.

Gov. Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, March 2, as a mark of respect for the memory of Reverend Billy Graham.

Gov. Burgum joined President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and governors from across the nation for a discussion on shared state-federal priorities, including infrastructure, workforce development, the opioid epidemic and school safety, on the final day of the National Governors Association Winter Meeting.

Gov.  Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Monday, Feb. 19, and encouraged North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, as a mark of respect for the victims of Wednesday’s shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

Gov. Burgum challenged communities to get involved now in envisioning their futures during his keynote address at the first-ever Main Street ND Summit, hosted by the North Dakota Department of Commerce at the Bismarck Event Center.

Gov. Burgum is encouraging school, community and church bands and choirs across North Dakota to apply to be the Governor’s Official State Band and Chorus for 2018.

Gov. Burgum has announced Cody Schulz will serve as the state's next Director of Homeland Security, effective March 1, 2018.

Gov. Burgum has appointed Joe Morrissette as director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) effective March 1, citing his broad experience in government finance and deep knowledge of the state's budget and taxes. 

Gov. Burgum expressed his support for the vision of a safe, strong and proud America as outlined in President Donald Trump’s 2018 State of the Union Address this evening.

Gov. Burgum called for greater understanding of North Dakota's Native American tribes and highlighted opportunities for collaboration between state and tribal governments as he opened a first-of-its-kind conference on strengthening government-to-government partnerships and relationships. 

Gov. Burgum welcomed news that Hess Midstream Partners and Targa Resources will build a $150 million gas processing plant near Watford City, as North Dakota produces record volumes of natural gas and approaches record high oil production.

The Office of Recovery Reinvented is currently seeking applicants to serve on the Office of Recovery Reinvented Advisory Council. The council will consist of up to seven members and include individuals in recovery, behavioral health professionals and community and tribal leaders. Individuals of various backgrounds and experience outside of the defined positions also are encouraged to apply.

First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum has been invited to attend a White House Women’s Event on Tuesday, Jan. 16, featuring prominent women within the Trump administration and state government.

Gov. Burgum convened the first meeting of the newly formed Task Force for Higher Education Governance, laying a foundation for assessing the current governance structure and whether changes are needed to meet North Dakota's educational and workforce needs in the 21st century.  

Gov. Burgum has signed an executive order creating the Office of Recovery Reinvented to promote strategic and innovative efforts to eliminate the shame and stigma associated with the disease of addiction.

Gov. Burgum expressed his support for the vision of a vibrant rural America as outlined by President Trump during his address to the 99th annual American Farm Bureau Federation convention in Nashville, Tenn.

Gov. Burgum congratulated the North Dakota State University Bison football team after their hard-fought 17-13 victory over James Madison University to capture the national title in the NCAA’s Football Championship Subdivision for the sixth time in seven years.

Gov. Burgum  announced the 2018 Main Street Initiative Summit will be held Feb. 12-13, 2018, in Bismarck, bringing together local and national community development experts and advocates to share best practices and engage community leaders, entrepreneurs, students and interested citizens in envisioning North Dakota’s future.

Gov. Doug Burgum today appointed Labor Commissioner Michelle Kommer as Job Service North Dakota Executive Director. Kommer had been serving as interim executive director since August 22, 2017, following the resignation of Cheri Giesen.

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced that North Dakota will participate in the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) with AT&T to establish a wireless communications network that will help first responders better serve and protect the public in times of need.

Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed Stephannie N. Stiel to a judgeship in the East Central Judicial District, effective January 22, 2018. Stiel, who will be chambered in Fargo, replaces Judge Norman Anderson, who is retiring effective Jan. 18, 2018.

Gov. Burgum has announced the members of a task force that will evaluate the governance structure for North Dakota’s higher education system and determine if improvement opportunities exist to better meet the state’s educational and workforce needs for the 21st century.

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced that applications for membership on the North Dakota Rural Development Council (NDRDC) are now being accepted until midnight on Wednesday, Jan. 17.

Gov. Burgum commended Congress for its successful effort to pass federal tax reform legislation, which now heads to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law, saying it will deliver substantial tax relief to North Dakota’s hardworking taxpayers while also stimulating investment, economic growth and job creation. 

Gov. Burgum will deliver the 2018 State of the State Address on Jan. 23 at Minot State University, highlighting the state’s challenges and successes from the past year and outlining his vision and agenda for the future.

Gov. Burgum on Friday, Dec. 15, will mark the one-year anniversary of being sworn into office with Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford, reflecting on a number of accomplishments and substantial progress on key initiatives aimed at improving the lives and economic success of all North Dakotans.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum joined community members and state officials, including the Office of Management and Budget as the event co-sponsor, for the annual tree-lighting ceremony in Bismarck.

Gov. Burgum stressed the critical importance of securing permanent protection against catastrophic flooding for the Fargo-Moorhead metro area, urging officials to build on the momentum of the F-M Area Flood Diversion Task Force after the group concluded its fifth and final meeting.

Gov. Burgum released a statement today after being served with a lawsuit brought by the state Legislature challenging the governor’s veto authority related to vetoes issued at the end of the 2017 legislative session.

Gov. Burgum issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Robert Wefald of North Dakota to the American Battle Monuments Commission.

Gov. Doug Burgum today directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, Dec. 7, in observance of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

Gov. Doug Burgum is joining Governors for Computer Science, a partnership comprised of bipartisan state leaders committed to advancing policy and funding to expand access to, and increase equity in, K-12 computer science education.

BISMARCK, N.D. (Dec. 4, 2017) – The North Dakota Rural Development Council (NDRDC) is being reconvened to support the development of rural communities across the state through collaboration between government and the nonprofit and private sectors.  

orth Dakota, Montana, Wyoming and Saskatchewan jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage at the Western Governors’ Association meeting in Arizona.

Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed Grand Forks attorney Jay D. Knudson to a judgeship in the Northeast Central Judicial District, effective December 18, 2017.

Gov. Burgum shared his gratitude with students, corporate sponsors and community donors for their joint efforts to “Fill the Dome” to help alleviate hunger in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

Gov. Doug Burgum joined U.S. Sen. John Hoeven and other officials from Minnesota and North Dakota for Veterans Day activities in Fargo that included a parade and raising of colors at the Fargo Civic Center followed by a formal program.

Gov. Burgum congratulated and thanked the leadership and crew of the USS North Dakota and their families for their important and purposeful service during a change of command ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn.

Gov. Burgum signed an executive order creating a task force to assess the existing governance structure for higher education in North Dakota and determine if changes are needed to ensure the system meets the state’s educational and workforce needs in the 21st century.

The North Dakota Board of University and School Lands (Land Board) voted to offer the position of Commissioner of the Department of Trust Lands to Jodi Smith of Bismarck.

Gov. Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Thursday, Nov. 9, and encouraged North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, as a mark of respect for the victims of Sunday’s shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

Gov. Burgum and South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard have staked a friendly wager on Saturday’s contest for the Dakota Marker between the North Dakota State University and South Dakota State University football teams.

Gov.  Burgum has proclaimed Saturday, Nov. 4, 2017, Miss America Cara Mund Day in North Dakota to coincide with homecoming ceremonies for the Bismarck native.

A selection committee has forwarded the names of three finalists for the position of state Land Commissioner to the North Dakota Board of University and School Lands for consideration.

Gov.  Burgum has signed an executive order granting an hours-of-service waiver for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting propane.

 Gov. Burgum announced the retirement of North Dakota Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Pam Sharp, extending his gratitude to Sharp for her dedication to the State of North Dakota for more than three decades.

Gov. Doug Burgum welcomed Vice President Mike Pence and Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson to Minot Air Force Base today, emphasizing the importance of the base’s dual nuclear mission to the nation’s defense strategy.

Gov. Burgum has issued an updated executive order extending waivers for hours of service and weight limit restrictions for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay, water and livestock to help livestock producers who have battled extreme drought conditions throughout North Dakota this year.

Gov. Doug Burgum met with the commander of the North Dakota Air National Guard’s 219th Security Forces Squadron this morning, who highlighted the role they play in protecting the Air Force’s nuclear missiles in North Dakota. Burgum received a mission briefing from squadron commander Lt. Col. Tad Schauer, which preceded Vice President Mike Pence’s arrival at Minot Air Force Base today.

Gov. Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum applauded President Donald Trump for declaring the nation’s opioid crisis a Nationwide Public Health Emergency, expanding access to resources and services – including in rural and remote areas – to combat the chronic disease of addiction.

Gov. Burgum will join Vice President Mike Pence as he receives a mission briefing from Minot Air Force Base leaders and addresses the airmen during his first visit to the base and first stop in North Dakota as vice president

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum today appointed Lise Kruse to lead the state Department of Financial Institutions, where she has served as chief examiner of banks since January 2011. The department oversees North Dakota’s state-chartered banks and credit unions as well as other financial companies. Kruse replaces Commissioner Robert Entringer, who in May announced he will retire Nov. 30.

Gov. Burgum and Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister met in Fargo to discuss the critical partnership between the United States and Canada as well as several shared interests and key issues facing both jurisdictions, including trade, water and public safety.

The North Dakota Governor’s Office, North Dakota Department of Commerce and Economic Development Association of North Dakota (EDND) presented the Governor’s Choice – Economic Developer of the Year awards during the EDND Fall Conference in Williston.

Gov. Burgum and Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton announced the formation of a new Task Force to develop design principles and concept-level engineering solutions to achieve balanced flood risk management for the Fargo-Moorhead region, including upstream, downstream, and metro-area communities and properties.

Gov.  Burgum has appointed former Walsh County prosecutor Barbara Whelan to a judgeship in the Northeast Judicial District, effective Oct. 23.

BISMARCK, N.D. – State agencies are expanding the fight against North Dakota’s opioid epidemic through several actions stemming from an executive order signed recently by Gov. Doug Burgum.

Gov. Doug Burgum today recognized the winning photographs and honorable mentions from the 14th annual North Dakota Governor’s Photo Contest in a ceremony in Memorial Hall of the North Dakota Capitol building.Gov. Doug Burgum today recognized the winning photographs and honorable mentions from the 14th annual North Dakota Governor’s Photo Contest in a ceremony in Memorial Hall of the North Dakota Capitol building.

Gov. Doug Burgum and Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread issued joint statements in response to President Trump signing an executive order directing the Secretaries of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Treasury to consider issuing guidance and regulations for expanding access to association health plans (AHPs), health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) and short-term medical plans.

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced the 2018 Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education, to be held in June, along with an Innovative Education challenge and awards that will be presented at the summit. The awards will highlight themes of innovation, collaboration, systems transformation and student leadership.

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced the members of the Innovative Education Task Force, created by executive order last month to underscore North Dakota’s commitment to leading the nation in innovative education.

Gov. Burgum issued a statement after U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt announced he will sign a proposed rule Tuesday to withdraw the Clean Power Plan emission standards established by the Obama administration for new and existing coal-fired power plants.

Gov. Burgum released a statement after the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denied North Dakota’s request for a presidential major disaster declaration for drought.

Gov. Doug Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford today congratulated the city of Minot on the completion of a three-year, nearly $35 million downtown infrastructure improvement project that spans approximately 26 blocks.

Gov. Burgum and Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton agreed to form a collaborative working group to try to address the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) concerns about the Fargo-Moorhead Area Diversion Project and find a viable path forward for the project.

Governor Doug Burgum has proclaimed October Energy Awareness Month in North Dakota. This proclamation coincides with a national Energy Awareness campaign promoted by the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC).

Gov. Burgum directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Friday, Oct. 6, and encouraged North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, as a mark of respect for the victims of Sunday’s tragic mass shooting in Las Vegas.

Dakota Access Pipeline LLC has donated $15 million to the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (DES) to help retire debt incurred by the state as a result of its response to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, Gov. Doug Burgum announced.

Gov. Doug Burgum and state Superintendent Kirsten Baesler today announced Leah Juelke, an English Language (EL) instructor at Fargo South High School, as the North Dakota Teacher of the Year for 2018.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum today announced several initiatives and awards as they hosted Recovery Reinvented, a daylong event at the Bismarck Event Center focused on ways to reinvent addiction recovery through innovative implementation in North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum and state Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler applauded a Presidential Memorandum aimed at expanding access to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and recognizing the important role it plays in developing a new generation of citizens contributing to the American economy.

Gov. Burgum joined Consul General of Canada Khawar Nasim during an event in Fargo to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary and North Dakota’s strong relationship with its neighbor and trade partner to the north.

Gov. Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum hosted former governors and their families during a reception at the governor’s residence, reminiscing on time spent in the home before it’s replaced by a new residence.

Gov. Burgum joined officials from Bobcat Co. and Montana-Dakota Utilities (MDU) to celebrate the announcement of a new pipeline that will supply the Bobcat factory in Gwinner with reliable natural gas service for years to come.

Gov. Burgum celebrated the newest member of the North Dakota Supreme Court during a formal investiture ceremony to install Justice Jon J. Jensen.

Gov. Burgum met with community leaders and residents in Beulah and Hazen, kicking off a series of meetings on his Main Street Initiative to determine how the state can best assist communities in promoting smart, efficient infrastructure development and creating healthy, vibrant main streets to help attract and retain a skilled workforce.

Gov. Burgum issued a statement after a phone call with Gov. Dayton about the Fargo-Moorhead Area Diversion Project, saying it was encouraging that they agreed on the need to work together and try to find a path forward for the project.

Gov. Doug Burgum today directed all government agencies to fly the POW/MIA flag in observance of POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Gov. Doug Burgum has announced the recipients of the 2017 Governor’s Awards for Excellence in Public Service, recognizing team members for the positive impact they have made for North Dakota citizens.

Gov. Doug Burgum today announced the creation of the Innovative Education Task Force to underscore North Dakota’s commitment to leading the nation in innovative education.

Gov.  Burgum met with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to advocate for drought relief and other North Dakota priorities, continuing to build on the collaborative relationship with Cabinet officials in the Trump administration.

Gov. Burgum joined President Donald Trump today in calling for major tax reform to ease the burden on hardworking Americans, spur business investment and job creation and help rebuild U.S. cities and towns.

Gov. Burgum issued a statement as he prepared to welcome President Donald Trump to Bismarck-Mandan on Wednesday during his first visit to North Dakota as commander-in-chief.

Gov. Burgum applauded the announcement by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to appoint Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford and North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms to the Department of the Interior’s Royalty Policy Committee.

Gov. Burgum has announced the hiring of Cheri Schoenfish as state government’s first Chief People Officer (CPO), seeking to build upon a culture of high-performing, citizen-focused team members and transform and unify human resources practices.

Gov. Doug Burgum today emphasized the need for dialogue with Native American tribes in North Dakota and a commitment to finding workable solutions grounded in respect and understanding as he led the first meeting of the interim Tribal Taxation Issues Committee.

Gov. Burgum has issued an updated executive order extending waivers for hours of service and weight limit restrictions for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting hay, water and livestock to help livestock producers battling drought conditions.

Gov. Burgum met today with Spirit Lake Nation leaders in St. Michael as part of ongoing engagement with Native American tribes across North Dakota.

The state’s general fund ended the 2015-17 budget cycle with about $66 million more than projected, but Gov. Burgum cautioned budgeting for next biennium will be tight unless revenues significantly improve.

Gov. Burgum has requested a presidential major disaster declaration for extensive storm damage sustained by infrastructure, farmsteads and ranches in July.

The State Water Commission has approved an additional $500,000 for its Drought Disaster Livestock Water Supply Program to help ranchers impacted by drought conditions, Gov. Burgum announced .

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, cabinet officials and Spirit Lake Nation leaders will participate in a media availability at the Spirit Lake Casino on Friday, Aug. 25.

Gov. Burgum and Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring have announced the availability of an emergency hay transportation program. The $1.5 million grant program will help reimburse a portion of hay transportation expenses to eligible producers impacted by the drought.

Gov. Burgum expressed his gratitude for Job Service North Dakota Executive Director Cheri Giesen after she resigned from the position to pursue other opportunities.

Gov. Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum are inviting the general public, Native American communities, business and community leaders, behavioral health providers, university and college representatives, health care providers and administrators, addiction recovery advocates, faith-based communities, first responders, law enforcement, families and more to attend “Recovery Reinvented” on Sept. 26 in Bismarck.

Gov. Burgum has declared a severe summer storm disaster for Bowman, Dunn and Slope counties and asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for additional time to request a major disaster declaration.

Gov.  Burgum and state Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring will continue their series of drought meetings next week with town hall events in Stanley and Beach, where state agencies will provide informational resources for farmers, ranchers and other North Dakotans impacted by extreme drought conditions.

Newly appointed members of the State Water Commission will meet for the first time next week and are expected to address an issue raised about the appointment process and recent action to help drought-stricken ranchers.

Gov.  Burgum and Standing Rock Sioux Chairman Dave Archambault II have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that directs state and tribal authorities on regulating an elk hunting season within the Standing Rock Reservation.

Gov. Burgum has appointed Mark Dosch of Bismarck to chair the Board of Trustees for the North Dakota Public Employees Retirement System (NDPERS), while also recognizing outgoing chairman Jon Strinden for his service and congratulating NDPERS Executive Director Sparb Collins on his upcoming retirement.

Gov. Doug Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford met Friday with Mandan, Hidatsa & Arikara (MHA) Nation Chairman Mark Fox and other tribal leaders in New Town, N.D. to identify areas of opportunity for government-to-government collaboration on issues ranging from water rights, taxes and law enforcement to addiction, historic sites and tourism.

Gov. Burgum has appointed seven members to the State Water Commission, bringing a broad variety of experience in flood protection, water supply and other water issues to the board.

Gov. Doug Burgum today directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, Aug. 13, in observance of the burial of Navy Fireman 1st Class Lawrence Fecho.

Gov. Burgum hosted U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt during his first visit to North Dakota, encouraging him to continue the cooperative approach between the state and federal government on water, agriculture and energy issues.

Gov. Burgum has requested a presidential major disaster declaration based on severe drought conditions that continue to plague farmers, ranchers and other residents across much of North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum has ordered the reinstatement of McKenzie County Sheriff Gary Schwartzenberger to the position of sheriff, as recommended by Special Commissioner Karen Klein.

Multiple state agencies will provide informational resources for farmers, ranchers and other North Dakotans impacted by extreme drought conditions during a town hall meeting Monday, Aug. 7, in Mott, N.D., hosted by Gov. Burgum and state Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring.

Gov. Doug Burgum will host U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt next week at meetings in Fargo and Grand Forks during Pruitt’s first trip to North Dakota as a Cabinet-rank official in the Trump administration.

BISMARCK, N.D. (July 28, 2017) –  Gov.

BISMARCK, N.D. – As part of ongoing efforts to help farmers and ranchers hit hard by extreme drought conditions, Gov.

Gov. Burgum voted with the State Water Commission to release an additional $500,000 for the Drought Disaster Livestock Water Supply Program to assist ranchers dealing with harsh drought conditions.

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.

 Gov. Burgum applauded the decision by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue authorizing emergency grazing on Conservation Reserve Program lands to assist livestock producers in drought-stricken areas of North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum today declared a drought emergency that allows the State Water Commission to reactivate a water supply assistance program for livestock producers in 26 counties experiencing moderate to extreme drought.

Gov. Burgum thanked the members of the State Water Commission for their decades of service and contributions to water resource management in North Dakota.

Gov. Doug Burgum today directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, June 24, in observance of the interment of fallen Gunners Mate 1st Class Arthur C. Neuenschwander.

 Gov. Burgum attended the grand opening celebration for the new Sanford Medical Center in Fargo, congratulating North Dakota’s largest private employer on the completion of its $494 million, 1-million-square-foot facility – one of the largest private industry construction projects in the history of the Dakotas.

Gov. Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum are inviting addiction recovery advocates, behavioral health providers, business and community leaders, faith-based organizations, families, first responders, health care providers and administrators, law enforcement, Native American communities, university and college representatives and more to save the date for Recovery Reinvented on Sept. 26, 2017, in Bismarck.

Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, June 10, in observance of the interment of fallen Marine Field Music 1st Class Warren G. Nelson, who fought and died 74 years ago in the Pacific Theater of World War II.​

Gov. Burgum has appointed seven citizen members to the newly formed Initiated and Referred Measure Study Commission.

At the first Governor's Summit on Innovative Education, State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler, educators and state lawmakers expressed optimism that a new state law will foster a culture of innovation that will inspire students and educators and position North Dakota as a leader in education.

During a roundtable meeting with President Donald Trump on Thursday, Gov. Burgum said “innovation, not regulation” is the right direction for rebuilding and expanding the nation’s infrastructure.

Gov. Burgum has accepted an invitation from the White House to meet Thursday with President Trump, senior administration officials, fellow governors, mayors and other stakeholders on ways to improve the nation’s infrastructure through partnerships.

Gov. Burgum has announced the creation of a task force dedicated to supporting the development of technologies to detect Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter the nefarious use of UAS.

Gov. Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Monday until noon in observance of Memorial Day.

Gov. Burgum met with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Acting Commissioner Kevin McAleenan to discuss a variety of topics related to border security, cross-border trade and travel, and overall coordination and collaboration between CBP and North Dakota.

Gov. Doug Burgum has announced the nationally recognized speakers who are participating in the first Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education in Bismarck on June 8 at Legacy High School.

BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum thanked the Lewis & Clark Fort Mandan Foundation for transferring control of a nearly $700,000 endowment trust to the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department to support ongoing maintenance of the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn.

Gov. Doug Burgum gathered oil and gas company representatives, agency officials and other stakeholders to discuss best practices and latest technologies for transporting crude oil and produced water in North Dakota and to improve monitoring, leak detection and communication of spills.

North Dakota Department of Financial Institutions Commissioner Robert Entringer will retire Nov. 30, Gov. Doug Burgum announced, extending his gratitude to Entringer for his 35 years with the department.

Gov. Doug Burgum has signed an emergency executive order granting a waiver of hours of service for drivers of commercial vehicles transporting anhydrous ammonia fertilizer.

Gov. Doug Burgum has declared a flood disaster for 10 counties and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indian Reservation in response to spring flooding across portions of northern North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum released a statement after the U.S. Senate voted 51-49 to reject a resolution of disapproval for the Bureau of Land Management’s “Waste Prevention, Production Subject to Royalties, and Resource Conservation” rule, commonly known as the flaring and venting rule.

Gov. Burgum has announced the retirement of North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) Director Grant Levi, extending his gratitude to Levi for his dedication and contribution to the state’s transportation system over more than three decades.

BISMARCK, N.D. (May 3, 2017) – Gov. Doug Burgum has signed the remaining bills from the recently adjourned 2017 legislative session, exercising his veto authority on nine additional bills to reduce spending and protect executive branch authority and the flexibility needed to reinvent government.

Gov. Burgum welcomed news that North Dakota will receive up to $15 million in federal funding to partially reimburse the state for costs resulting from the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) protests.

North Dakota is well-positioned for the future with a leaner, more efficient state government and smaller budget that provides permanent property tax relief, fully funds K-12 education and uses innovative approaches to support other priorities, Gov. Doug Burgum said after the 65th Legislative Assembly adjourned sine die.

Gov. Burgum has signed landmark legislation creating permanent, sustainable property tax relief by transitioning county social services costs to the state.

North Dakota Supreme Court Justice Carol Ronning Kapsner submitted her notice of resignation to Gov. Doug Burgum, who thanked her for more than 18 years of exceptional service on the state’s highest court.

ov. Burgum has signed justice reinvestment legislation and additional bills that together form a comprehensive plan to provide support for people suffering from behavioral health issues and substance abuse while substantially reducing corrections costs.

Gov. Doug Burgum has signed Senate Bill 2135 and is now seeking applicants for the Initiated and Referred Measure Study Commission created by the legislation.

Gov. Burgum signed a proclamation commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 1997 Red River flood.

Gov. Burgum has signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency for nine counties experiencing spring flooding in northern North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum shared his ideas about how health care reform can improve patient care and reduce costs during a phone call with U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price.

Gov. Burgum, Superintendent of Public Instruction Kirsten Baesler, state legislators and others took part in a ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 2186, which promotes innovative approaches to education in North Dakota.

Gov. Burgum signed legislation separating the Environmental Health Section from the North Dakota Department of Health to create a standalone Department of Environmental Quality.

Gov. Burgum has appointed Melissa Baker, the assistant administrator and chief of operations for Montana State Parks, to lead the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department.

North Dakota and six other states will participate in a new collaborative to identify and deploy strategies to improve access to high-quality, cost-effective health care in rural America, the National Governors Association announced.

Gov. Burgum congratulated project officials, saying the facility provides much-needed space and is a great example of how government agencies can achieve efficiencies when they work together to solve common problems.

BISMARCK, N.D. – Governor Doug Burgum today vetoed the following bill:

House Bill 1153 – An act to amend and reenact section 54-06-31 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to state employee recruitment and retention bonus programs.

Gov. Burgum has issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency for Walsh County based on the threat of major flooding. The county and the city of Grafton have been working together the past month to prepare for potential record flooding .

BISMARCK, N.D. – Governor Doug Burgum today signed legislation allowing law-abiding citizens to carry a concealed handgun if they have possessed a valid North Dakota driver’s license or state ID card for at least a year.

Gov. Burgum has signed an agreement extending for five years an alliance aimed at promoting greater workplace safety in the oil and gas industry.

Governor Burgum has appointed Shawn Riley to be the state’s chief information officer and lead the North Dakota Information Technology Department (ITD).

Gov. Burgum presented updated revenue projections for the remainder of the 2015-2017 biennium and a new revenue forecast for 2017-2019, both of which predict substantially less revenue than the conservative assumptions adopted by legislators in January.

Gov. Burgum appointed Brian Kroshus to the North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC), emphasizing his background as a business and community leader and his experience in looking out for the public interest.

North Dakota has been recognized as the overall fourth-best state in the country in U.S. News & World Report’s first-ever “Best States” rankings.

Gov. Burgum participated in a meeting with President Donald Trump and other governors from across the nation to discuss how to improve the U.S. health care system and redefine the federal government’s relationship with the states.

BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum on Thursday signed four bills designed to protect landowner rights, deter criminal activity and expand the ability to appoint outside law enforcement officers to assist North Dakota agencies.

Gov. Burgum participated in a health care reform meeting Wednesday with Congressman Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., and Congressman Mike Burgess, R-Texas, who will be one of the chief architects as Congress works to repeal and replace the deeply flawed Affordable Care Act.

Gov. Doug Burgum signed an emergency evacuation order out of concern for the safety of people who are residing on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers land in southern Morton County and to avoid an ecological disaster to the Missouri River. 

Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed Dr. Casey Ryan of Grand Forks to the North Dakota Board of Higher Education.

BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum today reappointed Kathleen Neset of Tioga to the North Dakota Board of Higher Education.

Gov. Doug Burgum and leaders of Minnesota Soybean Processors (MnSP) and its subsidiary North Dakota Soybean Processors (NDSP) announced that MnSP is taking steps toward construction of a $240 million soybean processing plant – the first of its kind in North Dakota – at Spiritwood, N.D. 

Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed Tioga attorney Benjamen J. Johnson to a judgeship in the Northwest Judicial District, effective March 13.

Gov. Doug Burgum has appointed health care executive Christopher D. Jones to lead the Department of Human Services, putting a proven strategic planner in charge of North Dakota’s largest state agency.

Health management executive and former critical care nurse Mylynn Tufte will serve as North Dakota’s next State Health Officer, bringing an extensive clinical, business and technology background to the top leadership role in the Department of Health, Gov. Doug Burgum announced Wednesday.

BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum on Friday appointed GIANT Sunflower Seeds co-founder Jay Schuler to lead the North Dakota Department of Commerce, citing Schuler’s successful track record as a job creator and entrepreneur for more than 40 years.

Gov. Burgum and Lt. Gov. Sanford met Wednesday night with tribal leaders and representatives of the main Dakota Access Pipeline protest camp to listen and discuss emptying the camp before spring flooding, ensuring safety and preventing the camp’s population from swelling.

Gov. Doug Burgum has signed his first piece of legislation, providing additional borrowing authority to cover law enforcement support costs related to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests.

Gov. Burgum and state officials unveiled a new website, NDResponse.gov, and related social media sites designed to provide information during issues of significant public impact and involving a multi-agency response.

Watch the Live Stream.

Gov. Doug Burgum issued a statement today in response to the executive action by President Donald Trump directing federal agencies to expedite the review and approval process for the Dakota Access Pipeline.

Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies across the state to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, Jan. 24, in honor of Rolette County Sheriff’s Deputy Colt Allery, who died in the line of duty this past week.

Gov. Doug Burgum released a statement today regarding the death of Rolette County Sheriff’s Deputy Colt Allery, who was fatally shot in the line of duty Wednesday.

Gov. Doug Burgum presented legislative leaders Monday with an executive budget proposal that recommends additional cuts and realigns spending priorities to spur innovation, creativity and the reinvention of government.

BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum, members of his cabinet, District 31 legislators and Morton County officials met with local farmers and ranchers Wednesday in an effort to better understand their perspective and concerns about the impacts of the ongoing Dakota Access Pipeline protests.

BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum and Lt. Gov. Brent Sanford have concluded their first round of meetings with leaders of the Native American tribes headquartered in North Dakota as the administration seeks a fresh start to improving dialogue and strengthening relations between state government and tribal nations.

BISMARCK –  Governor Doug Burgum and First Lady Kathryn Helgaas Burgum brought together health professionals, tribal leaders and others from across the state this week to discuss a collaborative approach to facing addiction in North Dakota communities.

Governor urges North Dakotans to embrace change; rethink budgeting, education, addiction treatment, tribal relations

BISMARCK – In his first State of the State address, Governor Doug Burgum on Tuesday said the state’s revenue challenge presents an opportunity to reinvent state government and embrace technology to hold down costs and build an economy and workforce for the 21^st century.

BISMARCK – Governor Doug Burgum will deliver the State of the State Address to a joint session of the 65th North Dakota Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, January 3, in the House Chamber of the state Capitol in Bismarck.

BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum and Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairman Dave Archambault applauded Thursday’s successful testing of the Backwater Bridge on Highway 1806 as an important step in rebuilding relations between the state and the tribe.

BISMARCK – Gov. Doug Burgum and Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chairman Dave Archambault met Monday to begin establishing direct communication between leadership with the goal of building trust and normalizing relations between the state and tribe.

BISMARCK, ND – Gov. Doug Burgum has directed state government agencies and encouraged North Dakotans to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff to honor the memory of astronaut and public servant John Glenn. 

As he takes office today, Gov. Doug Burgum has announced a new structure for the Office of the Governor of North Dakota, creating Chief Operating Officer and Chief Administrative Officer roles in an effort to make government more efficient and responsive.