North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1492

Introduced
1/20/25  
Refer
1/20/25  

Caption

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of public instruction for a passthrough grant for a science museum construction project.

Impact

The bill specifies that the grant will only be awarded if the prospective grant recipient can demonstrate the successful raising of an equivalent amount of matching funds from nonstate sources. This stipulation aims to encourage community involvement and investment in the project while mitigating the financial burden on the state. By mobilizing additional resources, the bill not only seeks to enhance the financial viability of the museum project but also fosters collaboration between public entities and private donors, thereby strengthening communal ties and investment in education.

Summary

House Bill 1492 seeks to appropriate a significant sum of $24,000,000 to the Department of Public Instruction in North Dakota for a specific purpose: to fund a passthrough grant aimed at the construction of a science museum. This bill highlights the state’s commitment to enhancing educational resources and infrastructure, particularly in the fields of science and technology, which are vital for the development and engagement of students and the broader community in North Dakota. The funding is designated to support a visionary project that could contribute to the educational landscape of the region by providing a dedicated facility for science-related educational activities.

Contention

While the bill appears to have a clear educational purpose, it may evoke discussions regarding priorities in state spending, particularly amidst competing needs for public funds. Opponents of the bill may argue that such a large allocation for a single project could detract from other essential areas of public funding, such as healthcare or infrastructure maintenance. Supporters, on the other hand, would contend that investing in educational facilities is foundational for long-term economic development and social progress, as a state rich in science and education can translate into a more skilled workforce and improved quality of life.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SB2200

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of public instruction for North Dakota governor's schools.

ND HB1157

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of veterans' affairs for providing grants for the construction of the Fisher house.

ND HB1491

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the superintendent of public instruction to provide grants to schools for meals for students.

ND SB2032

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of public instruction for the paraprofessional-to-teacher program.

ND SB2322

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of health and human services for behavioral health primary prevention initiative grants.

ND HB1496

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for rural workforce housing grants.

ND SB2033

The duties of the superintendent of public instruction; and to provide an appropriation.

ND SB2013

The salary of the superintendent of public instruction, baseline funding, high-cost students, and regional library cooperative definitions; to provide for a transfer; to provide for reports; to provide an exemption; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1033

Matching grants for the advancement of academics at institutions of higher education; and to provide an appropriation.

ND HB1217

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the department of transportation for transportation projects to alleviate flooding impacts; to provide for a department of transportation study; and to provide for a report to the legislative management.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.