Gov. Doug Burgum’s 2024 State of the State address, scheduled for Jan. 23 at Dickinson State University’s Dorothy Stickney Auditorium, will focus on the progress and priorities of North Dakota. In his seventh year in office, Gov. Burgum will outline the state’s developments and plans, covering a range of topics that impact residents.
Among the key highlights of the address is the $515 million tax relief package that provides income and property tax relief to residents. This significant tax relief aims to alleviate the burden on North Dakotans and stimulate economic growth.
Furthermore, Gov. Burgum will address the elimination of the state’s oil production trigger tax, a move designed to encourage investment in the energy sector. This decision is expected to drive further growth and innovation in North Dakota’s robust energy industry.
The governor’s speech will also shed light on the North Dakota Child Care Initiative, a program aimed at improving child care access and affordability. By enhancing child care options, the initiative seeks to support working families across the state.
In the realm of workforce development, the address will detail the ND Works plan’s investment in Regional Workforce Impact Grants and the establishment of the Office of Legal Immigration. These initiatives demonstrate North Dakota’s commitment to attracting and retaining talent from diverse backgrounds.
Health, education, and infrastructure will also be key themes in Gov. Burgum’s address. The expansion of Medicaid coverage for new mothers and the state’s approach to addressing substance use disorders and mental health will be discussed. Additionally, cybersecurity education in schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as investments in infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water projects, and flood protection, will be highlighted.
In terms of economic reform, the address will outline strategies for boosting the state’s economy, along with plans for workforce development and improvements in the health and education systems. Gov. Burgum’s seventh year in office has witnessed remarkable progress in various sectors, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to uplifting North Dakota’s economy, enhancing the workforce, and prioritizing public welfare.
The approved $515 million tax relief package will be the focal point of Gov. Burgum’s address, as it signifies the state’s commitment to reducing the tax burden on its residents. The package includes measures such as income tax relief and property tax relief over a two-year period, marking the most extensive individual income tax relief in the state’s history.
Among the legislative actions that have shaped North Dakota’s progress is House Bill 1158, which revamped tax brackets and rates, positioning the state among those with the lowest income tax rates nationwide. The property tax relief includes a tax credit for homeowners and an expansion of the Homestead Property Tax Credit program for seniors, allowing more individuals to benefit from reduced property tax burdens.
Regarding the energy sector, House Bill 1286 eliminated the state’s oil production trigger tax, a move aimed at attracting investment and further driving growth in this crucial industry.
The North Dakota Child Care Initiative, which received a $66 million investment from the Burgum administration, has been instrumental in improving child care access, affordability, and quality within the state. This initiative recognizes the importance of supporting families and ensuring that child care is accessible to all North Dakotans.
The commitment to workforce development is evident in the allocation of $30 million to the Regional Workforce Impact Grants and other programs. Additionally, the establishment of the Office of Legal Immigration reflects North Dakota’s determination to harness the talents of international individuals to contribute to the state’s growth.
Furthermore, the governor’s address will cover significant progress in health, education, and infrastructure. The expansion of Medicaid coverage for new mothers demonstrates North Dakota’s dedication to supporting the well-being of families. The state’s approach to addressing substance use disorders and mental health aims to provide comprehensive care and assistance to those in need.
In education, the introduction of cybersecurity education from kindergarten through 12th grade prepares students for the increasingly digital world, equipping them with vital skills for the future. Investments in infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, water projects, and flood protection, will contribute to the state’s continued growth and development.
Gov. Burgum’s State of the State address will serve as a comprehensive overview of North Dakota’s progress and plans. From economic reform to workforce development, health, education, and infrastructure, the address will shed light on the state’s strategic direction and commitment to improving the lives of its residents. These initiatives and legislative actions highlight North Dakota’s determination to address immediate needs while paving the way for a brighter future.
As Gov. Burgum aptly stated, We’re excited and optimistic about our future and building on this progress for our state and our citizens. North Dakota’s balance sheet has never been stronger.
