Governor Armstrong's proposal to boost oil and gas tax allocations to the general fund from $460 million to $500 million took center stage during the Senate Appropriations meeting on January 20, 2025. This significant recommendation aims to enhance funding for state initiatives, but it hinges on the passage of new legislation to take effect.

In addition to the tax increase, Armstrong suggested reallocating earnings from the legacy fund into a special fund dedicated to property tax relief. However, the current budget reflects existing law, meaning legislative action is necessary for these changes to materialize.

The meeting also addressed the expiration of coal tax exemptions set for 2026, which could generate approximately $21.35 million in general fund revenues if reinstated. Armstrong recommended extending these exemptions through the next biennium, emphasizing the need for legislative approval to implement any changes.

As the committee reviewed the budget forecast, they noted adjustments to the proposed figures, including a beginning balance for the general fund projected at $1.112 billion. The discussions also touched on oil price and production forecasts, with Armstrong's estimates suggesting a price of $62 per barrel and production remaining steady at 1.15 million barrels per day.

The meeting concluded with a call for adopting these budgetary assumptions, setting the stage for further discussions and decisions in the coming weeks. The outcomes of these proposals could significantly impact North Dakota's financial landscape, highlighting the importance of legislative action in shaping the state's economic future.