A proposed amendment aimed at supporting single mothers in higher education took center stage during the North Dakota House Appropriations Committee meeting on March 25, 2025. The initiative, introduced by Representative Shane Gettle, seeks to provide financial assistance to students facing unexpected pregnancies or those who have recently given birth, allowing them to continue their education without interruption.

Gettle emphasized the importance of this program, stating, "This state is compassionate. This state cares. They don’t want a surprise pregnancy or a child to get in the way of your education." The proposal outlines a funding request of $5 million, which would be administered through the North Dakota University System. Eligible institutions, both public and private, could apply for grants to cover costs such as tuition, room and board, and childcare services.

The committee discussed the potential impact of the program, with Gettle noting that while specific data on the number of affected students is not yet available, the initiative aims to address a significant need. The program would operate on a pilot basis, allowing for adjustments based on its effectiveness and the response from institutions.

In addition to this key discussion, the committee also reviewed funding for the Professional Student Exchange Program, which supports veterinary, optometry, and dentistry students. The funding for this program is set to increase from $3.6 million to $5.2 million, reflecting the ongoing commitment to bolster healthcare education in the state.

As the committee prepares to finalize its recommendations by April 11, the proposed support for single mothers stands out as a significant step towards fostering an inclusive educational environment in North Dakota.