Senate committee approves amendment to House Bill 15 33 on financial literacy education

The North Dakota Senate Education Committee made significant strides in promoting financial literacy during their meeting on April 7, 2025, by passing an amendment to House Bill 1533. This bill, introduced by Representative Pyle, aims to enhance personal finance education in schools.

The key amendment requires schools to either offer a standalone financial literacy course or integrate financial literacy concepts into existing classes, such as economics or problems of democracy. Jim Uphgren from the Department of Public Instruction confirmed that the amendment updates the curriculum to align with modern standards, making it more relevant for students.

The committee unanimously approved the amendment with a vote of 6-0, signaling strong bipartisan support for improving financial education. Following this, the amended bill was also passed without opposition, indicating a collective commitment to equipping students with essential financial skills.

The North Dakota Council of Educational Leaders, which previously opposed the original version of the bill, expressed support for the amended proposal, highlighting its flexibility in implementation. Senator Wabamaw will carry the bill forward, reflecting the committee's enthusiasm for advancing financial literacy in the state's education system.