Budget & Taxes

HB 1264 appropriates $75,000 from the general fund to the North Dakota State Historical Society for a one-time bridge construction project at Whitestone Hill State Historic Site. The funding is allocated for the 2025-2027 biennium and is specifically designated for infrastructure improvements at the site. This procedural bill directly affects the State Historical Society and the Whitestone Hill site by providing dedicated capital for physical enhancements.

HB 1171 creates a scholarship program for dependents of North Dakota law enforcement family members, directly affecting eligible students whose parents or guardians are full-time law enforcement officers (including correctional officers, firefighters, EMS providers, or peace officers) with at least three years of service. The program covers 50% of tuition costs (minus other aid) at state higher education institutions, administered by the State Board of Higher Education. It appropriates $5 million from the general fund for the 2025-2027 biennium to fund these scholarships. The bill defines eligibility through tax dependency exemptions and enrollment at state-controlled colleges or universities.

Relating to an income tax deduction for cash and noncash tips received by a food or beverage service establishment employee; and to provide an effective date.

HCR 3002 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow North Dakota to authorize and regulate sports betting within the state. If approved by voters, it would amend the state constitution to permit the legislature to license and regulate sports betting on professional and college sports. All tax revenue generated from sports betting would be required to fund K-12 public schools. This change would directly affect all North Dakotans by altering the state's legal framework for gambling and directing new revenue toward public education.