The morning included reports and remarks from President Nick Archuleta, NEA Director Brenda Seehafer, and Executive Director Chad Oban. Each spoke clearly of our collective power to make our communities and workplaces stronger and the role every member has in making that a reality. The Assembly also heard updates on our progress to goal for our 3 Year Strategic Plan focused on professional development, growth, and advocacy.
The Delegate Assembly also included concrete actions by delegates to pass a balanced budget with no increase in state dues for the fourth straight year and the Assembly unanimously passed two new business items. The first item approved a referral campaign for the voucher bill, HB 1532. The bill was subsequently vetoed by the Governor, but the enthusiasm to stand up for public education was palpable in the room as it was discussed. Second, some veteran curlers from our numbers proposed New Business Item No. 2 to make curling the official sport of North Dakota United and to encourage the formation of curling teams in our locals across the state.
Finally, North Dakota United presented the Friend of Public Employees Award to three legislators who fought valiantly during the session to protect the North Dakota Public Employees Retirement System (NDPERS) defined benefit plan: Senators Sean Cleary and Dick Dever of Bismarck and Representative Josh Boschee of Fargo. Senator Dever, Representative Boschee, and 2022 winner of the Friend of Public Employees, Scott Miller, participated in a thorough panel discussion of the proposed changes to the defined benefit pension plan. Senator Cleary was unable to attend, but sent along words of appreciation for the recognition.
