The North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee convened on February 21, 2025, to discuss key legislative measures, including a proposal aimed at enhancing voter understanding of ballot measures and a bill concerning gambling addiction treatment funding.

One of the primary topics was Senate Bill 2230, which proposes a $600,000 initiative to provide voters with clear and objective descriptions of statewide constitutional measures. The plan includes mailing educational materials to approximately 450,000 active voters 45 days before elections. This initiative aims to address concerns raised during previous election cycles, where many voters expressed confusion about ballot measures. The funding is designated for a one-time biennium period, allowing lawmakers to evaluate its effectiveness before considering future appropriations.

Committee members expressed support for the bill, citing successful implementations in other states, such as Montana, where voters have come to expect similar informational mailings. The discussions highlighted the potential for this initiative to reduce the number of inquiries legislators receive from constituents seeking guidance on how to vote.

In addition to the voter education initiative, the committee reviewed Senate Bill 2393, which sought to increase funding for gambling addiction treatment from $10,000 to $33,000 per quarter. However, concerns about the bill's compatibility with another related measure led to a recommendation for it to not pass. The committee emphasized that funding for gambling addiction services should be addressed within the broader human services budget.

The meeting concluded with a recommendation for the passage of Senate Bill 2230 and a do not pass recommendation for Senate Bill 2393. The committee plans to carry over additional bills for further discussion in the upcoming session.