The North Dakota House Appropriations Committee convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss the Human Resources Division's budget proposal, which has sparked significant interest due to its substantial increase. The proposed base budget stands at $24 million, while the executive recommendation has surged to $65 million, marking an increase of $41 million.

A key component of the budget is the allocation for salaries and benefits, which constitutes approximately 25% of the total budget. The operating expenses account for 68%, and there is a capital request of $5 million. The budget proposal includes a request for 31.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, primarily aimed at supporting the expansion in Grand Forks.

During the meeting, committee members discussed various operational costs, including food, clothing for residents, and employee meals. The budget also encompasses community housing, programming, and contracts for transition halfway houses and parole holds. Additionally, there are provisions for travel security, office supplies, and repairs.

A significant portion of the capital request is dedicated to IT needs, which includes the installation of network equipment and public safety technology. The committee acknowledged that the budget figures presented were based on preliminary estimates and ongoing negotiations with Grand Forks. As discussions progress, it is anticipated that the actual IT costs may be lower than initially projected, as more information becomes available regarding existing technology and resources.

The committee emphasized the importance of finalizing these budgetary details in the coming weeks, as they work towards a clearer understanding of the financial requirements for the new facility and its operations. The outcome of these negotiations will play a crucial role in shaping the final budget proposal.