The North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss key funding issues, including the management of school budgets and the continuation of rural art outreach programs.

Senator Magram raised concerns about how schools manage their budgets, particularly regarding the practice of returning unspent funds to the general fund. He noted that schools often have carryover balances and emphasized the importance of accurate estimates of student enrollment to avoid excess funds being returned. Currently, it is projected that schools will return approximately $11 million, a figure that Magram believes may be conservative. He highlighted the need for careful budgeting to ensure that funds are available for educational needs without falling short.

The committee also discussed the rural art outreach program, which aims to provide art education in schools lacking dedicated art classes. This initiative has been well-received in rural communities and is seen as essential for enhancing arts education across the state. The funding for this program is not new but is part of ongoing support deemed necessary by the Appropriations subcommittee.

During the meeting, an amendment regarding the funding for the Science Center was proposed, which faced some resistance. Senator Meyer expressed his opposition to the removal of $10 million allocated for the Science Center, indicating a divide among committee members on this issue. Ultimately, the committee voted in favor of the amendment, with a tally of 13 in favor and 1 against.

The meeting concluded with a motion to pass the amended bill, which was approved unanimously, reflecting a collaborative effort to address educational funding and support for the arts in North Dakota.