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Letters to the Editor

SBHE not defending its constitutional authority

Dan Rice Fargo Our State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) is failing in its most important fiduciary (legal) responsibility, which is to defend its Constitutional authority. The ND State Constitution states “The state board of higher education shall have full authority over the institutions under its control…” (emphasis added). Neither the State Legislature or the Governor have the Constitutional authority to interfere in the administration of the public institutions of higher education. Representative Lefor (R Dickinson), has introduced HB 1446 which would significantly ...

Let us vote on property tax repeal

Steven Moen Minot HB 3024 was introduced on Feb. 21, 2023. This is a resolution bill that would put the Elimination and Replacement of Unfair Property Tax on the ballot for we the people to vote on in the 2024 election cycle. This bill would repeal the current system of using people’s property as the go to source of revenue to fund political subdivisions and replace it directly with money from the state. The local political subdivision would still have duty to budget and spend this money just as they do now. All that changes is the revenue source. This would mean if passed by the ...

Politicians on fast track to making state worse

Katie Christensen ND State Director, External Affairs, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund Fargo It’s that time again, when North Dakota lawmakers ignore individual freedom, public health best practices and medical research to instead promote an unscientific and dangerous agenda that will undoubtably harm North Dakotans. Our politicians’ actions put us on the fast track to a religiously governed state. So far, politicians rejected paid family leave and pushed forward a plan to send public dollars to private (religious) schools. They ...

Medical choice is ND core value

Dr. Duncan B. Ackerman North Dakotans for Open Access Healthcare Bismarck Are you aware of your legislators’ priorities? It shouldn’t be controversial to chart the course of your own future – but North Dakota legislators are pushing policies that promote a very specific unscientific and inequitable agenda. Science and research show us what works to improve public health. Let your lawmakers know that you are paying attention. Should patients be able to make decisions regarding who is on their healthcare team? If you believe patient choice should be a core value in ...

Buckle up: Enjoy what matters

By Gene LaDoucer Director of Public Affairs, AAA-The Auto Club Group in ND Fargo As a group, North Dakotans have a strong appreciation for family, friends and neighbors. They will go to great lengths to protect them from harm and to help during times of need. So why do so many refuse to take a simple step to help protect themselves? Why do 1 in 5 drivers choose not to buckle their seatbelt? I feel it necessary to ask these individuals, “Do you get so much enjoyment of going without a seatbelt you’d give your life for it?” At least 46 North Dakotans would likely ...

Eating Disorder Awareness Week promotes change

Kristina Hokenson, Minot Eating Disorder Awareness Week is Monday, February 27th, to Sunday, March 5th. This is an annual campaign started by the national eating disorder association (NEDA). The purpose is to “educate the public about the realities of eating disorders and to provide hope, support, and visibility to individuals and families affected by eating disorders.” The theme this year is “It’s Time for Change.” The awareness colors of green and blue will be lighting up many landmarks across the United States, including the Alerus Center in Grand Forks! According ...