Published: March 24, 2023
Key Takeaways
- the voucher bill that would give $24 million in public funds to private schools with no regulations or r transparency – was given a 4-2 “do pass” recommendation in Senate Education Committee.
- HB 1040, which would close NDPERS and cost $5.5 billion to taxpayers, came out of Senate State and Local Government with a 4-2 “do not pass”.
With just over one month remaining in the legislative session, more and more bills are coming to final votes. It’s more important than ever to make our voices known to legislators to ensure we protect public workers and educators in North Dakota! Head to the Act section if you’re ready to take action now, otherwise keep reading to learn more about our biggest priorities.
Vouchers
House Bill 1532 – the voucher bill that would give $24 million in public funds to private schools with no regulations or requirements for transparency – was given a 4-2 “do pass” recommendation in Senate Education Committee. The two Senators who voted against the do pass recommendation, Senators Lemm and Conley, received emails from NDU members who were constituents, urging them to oppose the bill. Our pressure works! HB 1532 is headed to Senate Appropriations Education and Environment Division on Tuesday, the 28th, at 8:30 am. Keep up the pressure so we can kill this bill! Head to the Act section to email your Senator and submit written testimony opposing HB 1532.
Pensions
Exciting news on the pensions front! House Bill 1040, which would close the defined benefit pension plan and cost $5.5 billion dollars to taxpayers, came out of Senate State and Local Government with a 4-2 “do not pass” recommendation. Senators Lee, Cleary, Braunberger, and Estenson voted for the do not pass recommendation, so if you are a constituent, please send them a thank you email for their position opposing HB 1040! The bill will be heard on the Senate floor for a final vote early next week, so make sure you go to the Act section to send Senators an email urging them to vote no on this expensive and careless legislation.
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Keeping the Promise of Quality Public Education & Public Services
With more than 11,500 members across the state, NDU supports equal opportunities for success for ALL North Dakota students, and respect and support for all educators. NDU members are teachers, community college professors, speech pathologists, bus drivers, secretaries, retired educators and student teachers.