Gov. Armstrong presents Nearly $20 Billion Budget

BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR) — Gov. Kelly Armstrong presents his first state budget which comes in at nearly $20 billion.

Armstrong’s administration claims it’s $600 million less than former Gov. Burgum’s final budget.

A large portion is focused on property tax reform and relief, with that section totaling almost $500 million.

That money will provide a property tax credit of over $1500 for each primary residence plus, the plan caps future increases in local property tax budgets at 3% per year.

Armstrong says the focus of his budget wasn’t necessarily the amount of money, rather how it would be spent.

“As I said during my state of the state, I’m less concerned about spending more, and I’m less concerned about spending less. What I am concerned about is spending wisely and making sure we are investing strategically to make the best use of tax dollars now and in the future,” said Armstrong.

Another highlight of the budget was $16 million earmarked to help prison overcrowding in Grand Forks.