News

Gov. Doug Burgum has signed House Bill 1385, allowing the State Water Commission (SWC) to enter into agreements with federally recognized tribal nations, making them eligible sponsors under the North Dakota Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) Cost-Share Program.

Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Friday, March 31, and encourages North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, as a mark of respect for the victims of Monday’s shooting in Nashville, Tenn. The directive is in accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden.

As part of ongoing efforts to make North Dakota the most military-friendly state in the nation, Gov. Doug Burgum signed a bill that exempts military pay from state income tax for active duty, National Guard and Reserve members, building on legislation signed in 2019 that exempts military retirement pay.

Gov. Doug Burgum and North Dakota School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler celebrated the governor’s signing of HB1398, which requires the teaching of computer science and cybersecurity and the integration of these content standards into school coursework from kindergarten through 12^th grade. The superintendent said North Dakota is the first state in the nation to approve legislation requiring cybersecurity education.

In a “sweeping” change to state law, Gov. Doug Burgum signed Senate Bill 2229 designating curling as the official sport of North Dakota.

Gov. Doug Burgum has signed 33 of the more than 50 bills introduced this legislative session to change or eliminate over 400 antiquated, unnecessary and burdensome regulations and other red tape that was identified through the Red Tape Reduction Working Group created by executive order last August.

Gov. Doug Burgum issued an executive order declaring a statewide winter storm disaster for central, northwestern and northeastern North Dakota related to severe fog and ice buildup on power lines in January that knocked down electrical infrastructure and caused thousands of power outages.

Gov. Doug Burgum has signed legislation allowing tribal nations to enter into agreements with the State of North Dakota to share revenue from alcohol taxes on tribal lands, resolving a longstanding issue.

The state Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released a revised revenue forecast that continues to predict growth into the next biennium, keeping the state in a strong position to provide tax relief and invest in priority areas, Gov. Doug Burgum said.

Gov. Doug Burgum is encouraging school, community and church bands, orchestras and choirs across North Dakota to apply to serve as the Governor’s Official State Band/Orchestra Program and Choral Program for the 2023-2024 school year.