ND Senate Approves Budget Bill

The Senate unanimously approved a budget bill aimed at addressing the state's projected revenue shortfall. Senate members debated for two hours over proposed amendments. The amendments were targeted at restoring cuts made to the property tax relief fund and the Department of Human Services.
The bill authorizes 2.5% budget cuts from state agencies. This is in addition to the 4.05% cuts Governor Dalrymple authorized in February. The bill authorizes the use of $75 million from the Budget Stabilization Fund and $100 million from Bank of North Dakota profits.

The House Appropriations Committee also discussed possible amendments, none of which were given committee approval. The House will vote on the bill Thursday morning.

Legislators will get a briefing on the 2017-2019 revenue forecast following the final approval of the budget bill.