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HB 1604

A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new chapter to title 15.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the funding of kindergarten through grade twelve school construction; to provide an appropriation; and to provide an expiration date.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Jeff Barta and 6 co-sponsors

Failed North Dakota bill proposing new state funding framework for K-12 school construction; rejected 71-19 in second reading after appropriations amendments.

Second reading, failed to pass, yeas 19 nays 71
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Bill Summary · HB 1604

Legislative bill overview

HB 1604 proposed creating a new funding mechanism in North Dakota law for kindergarten through grade 12 school construction projects. The bill included an appropriation and was designed to expire after a specified period, indicating it may have been a temporary or pilot program.

Why is this important

School infrastructure funding directly affects educational quality, student safety, and property tax burdens on communities. How states fund building construction and renovation significantly impacts equity between wealthy and under-resourced school districts.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source unclear - Without seeing the bill text, the source of appropriated funds (general fund, bonds, new taxes, or reallocation) would likely generate debate about state budget priorities
  • Distribution methodology - Questions about whether funding would be allocated equally, based on need, student population, or other metrics could divide urban/rural or wealthy/poor districts
  • State vs. local responsibility - Disagreement over whether school construction is primarily a state or local property tax responsibility, which affects both taxpayers and educational equity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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