We still have two ESA (voucher) bills to defeat, a continuing fight over tenure in our higher education institutions, a charter school bill, salary increases for non-education public employees and a fair increase for the K-12 funding formula. We need everyone to be prepared to advocate on behalf of public education and public employees throughout the second half while these crucial decisions are being made.
The legislature will be back in session starting Wednesday, March 5th, but will not hold any floor votes until Friday.
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Voucher Schemes
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We were unable to bring back SB 2400 for a reconsideration vote, but legislators heard from many of our members about their disappointment and have had to think long and hard about their decision to divert public dollars to private schools.
We need to keep up the pressure to ensure they understand that the majority of North Dakotans prefer an investment in our public education for the good of all students, not providing vouchers for a select few.
- Rep. Koppelman's voucher bill, which only provides money to private school families, was passed in the House late Tuesday night by a 51-39-3 vote. During debate on the House floor Representative Koppelman said, "This bill, providing about $4000 a student for those that attend private school, it's in and Educational Savings Account Structure, although at this level of funding it predominantly would just go to tuition expenses."
- HB 1475 for universal school meals was ultimately voted down in the House by a 39-54 vote. Unfortunately, our legislature once again showed where their priorities lie by voting down universal meals for all students, while passing Rep. Koppelman's voucher bill a day later.
- HB 1472 allowing "microschools" in North Dakota was voted down in the House on Tuesday night. We are happy to have seen this defeated.
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North Dakotans for Public Schools
As we dive deeper into the voucher fight this session, another group has joined our fight. North Dakotans for Public Schools is dedicated to protecting and strengthening public education in North Dakota, advocating for policies that ensure every student has access to a high-quality public education.
United by the belief that public schools are the cornerstone of our communities, North Dakotans for Public Schools will fight against harmful policies like voucher schemes that divert resources away from public schools. By bringing together educators, parents, school boards, and concerned citizens, the coalition will amplify the voices of those who understand the critical role public schools play in shaping the future of North Dakota’s children and communities.
Follow them on Facebook and sign up for updates online, and encourage your network to do the same!
Lifetime Teacher Licensure
While it still has yet to be scheduled, we are expecting a hearing on HB 1238 in Senate Workforce Development on Thursday morning at 9 am. It would lower the years required for a lifetime teacher licensure from 30 to 20, and passed the House overwhelmingly. The same story happened in 2023, but the bill ended up dying in the Senate by 1 vote. We need everyone to take action by emailing the committee to urge a Do Pass recommendation.
Up Next...
Legislative Update Calls
Join us Tuesday, March 4th at 5:30 CT to hear updates from the lobby team about the legislature. The legislature is back in session the next day, so we encourage everyone to join us to hear more about our plans for the second half of the session. Register here!
Testify on Bills
When the legislature reconvenes after crossover on March 5th, committee hearings will get started up again giving members another opportunity to testify. Please reach out if you are interested and we can help you prep or make any arrangements!
