The North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss key budgetary issues, particularly focusing on personnel funding and the need for additional staff within the Department of Agriculture.

A significant topic of discussion was the request for a new full-time equivalent (FTE) position in plant protection, which was not funded by the House. The North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner emphasized the necessity of this position to manage the increasing workload associated with the state's growing agricultural exports. The commissioner noted that North Dakota has seen a rise in requests for phytosanitary certificates, which are essential for exporting products such as peas, lentils, and sunflowers. Additionally, there has been an uptick in apiary inspections and the regulation of hemp facilities, further straining existing resources.

The commissioner highlighted that the request for this FTE was made after a decade of holding off on staffing increases, indicating a critical need for support to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. The committee members expressed interest in understanding the implications of not funding this position, recognizing the importance of maintaining the state's agricultural standards and export capabilities.

In conclusion, the discussions underscored the challenges faced by the Department of Agriculture in keeping pace with the demands of a growing industry. The committee's decisions on funding will significantly impact the department's ability to manage its responsibilities effectively. Further deliberations are expected as the budget process continues.