The salaries of justices of the supreme court and salaries of district court judges; to provide for transfers; to provide for a report; and to provide an exemption.
Impact
The bill's passage is expected to have a significant impact on state laws related to judicial financing. By ensuring salary increases and providing funding for various judicial operations, SB2002 aims to maintain efficient and effective court functions. It also includes provisions for technological upgrades, such as courtroom audio and video equipment, to modernize the judicial process. The allocation of funds is anticipated to enhance the operational capabilities of the courts and could improve access to judicial services for the public at large, reflecting a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the judicial system.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 2002 is an appropriation bill aimed at funding the expenses of the judicial branch in North Dakota. The bill outlines allocations for judicial salaries, specifically addressing the salaries of justices of the Supreme Court and district judges, and includes provisions for the office of guardianship and conservatorship. It seeks to authorize payments relating to operational and capital expenses, ensuring the judicial system remains adequately funded for the upcoming biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. Notably, the bill increases the salary for justices of the Supreme Court from $179,312 to $186,484 and district judges from $164,532 to $171,113 over the specified period.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB2002 appears to be generally positive, with support from various legislative members who recognize the necessity of funding for the judicial branch. However, concerns were raised regarding the extent of appropriations and potential over-reliance on state funds, indicating a degree of contention among members regarding the financial management of state resources. Despite these concerns, the overarching view reflects an understanding of the importance of adequately resourcing the judiciary to uphold the rule of law.
Contention
Notable points of contention discussed in the legislature included the proposed appropriations and the associated financial implications for the state's budget. There was debate about how to balance needs for judicial funding against other state priorities. Additionally, some members expressed concerns about the fairness of salary increases in light of broader economic conditions and potential impacts on taxpayers. The discussions highlighted the ongoing tension between the need for a well-funded judiciary and the fiscal responsibilities of the state government.
The salaries of justices of the supreme court, the salaries of district court judges, and compensation of jurors; to provide for transfers; to provide for a report; and to provide an exemption.
The state leave sharing program, capitol grounds rent collections, and the law enforcement retirement program; to provide for a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide a report; to provide for a retroactive application; and to provide an effective date.
A transfer of Bank of North Dakota profits to a water infrastructure revolving loan fund; to provide for a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide a report; to provide a penalty; to provide for application; to provide a retroactive effective date; to provide a contingent effective date; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.
Legislative compensation; to provide a report; to provide an exemption; to provide for application, transfer, and cancellation of unexpended appropriations; and to declare an emergency.
The salaries of the public service commissioners, the transfer and distribution of funds in the highway tax distribution fund, and siting process administrative fees; to provide a transfer; and to declare an emergency.
AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the council on the arts; to provide for transfers; to provide for a report; to provide an exemption; and to declare an emergency.
AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the game and fish department; to provide a contingent appropriation; to provide for a transfer; and to provide an exemption.
Transfers from the lottery operating fund to the multijurisdictional drug task force grant fund and the salary of the attorney general; to provide a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a legislative management study; and to declare an emergency.