Legislature
Legislative Council Chooses Studies for Interim
05/17/2007 09:38 AM
The Legislative Council
has chosen what issues to study before the next
legislative session. Included on the list:
- a study of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program;
- study how various public and private entities can cooperate with families to promote health lifestyles for children and create awareness about the interplay of healthy lifestyle choices and educational success
- study the feasibility and desirability of establishing a transition to independence program for young adults with mental illness
- study ways in which schools and school districts can train teachers, counselors, and all other school staff to better identify high-risk students and provide programs designed to reduce the incidences of high-risk behaviors that can lead to suicide attempts
Go here for a complete list of the studies chosen.
- a study of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program;
- study how various public and private entities can cooperate with families to promote health lifestyles for children and create awareness about the interplay of healthy lifestyle choices and educational success
- study the feasibility and desirability of establishing a transition to independence program for young adults with mental illness
- study ways in which schools and school districts can train teachers, counselors, and all other school staff to better identify high-risk students and provide programs designed to reduce the incidences of high-risk behaviors that can lead to suicide attempts
Go here for a complete list of the studies chosen.
Legislature Might Study Suicide Prevention
05/04/2007 12:13 PM
Legislative Session Finished!
04/26/2007 10:27 AM
The 60th North Dakota
Legislative Assembly wrapped up late last night.
Among the final bills approved was the Department of
Human Services budget. It includes a reimbursement
increase for providers of health care services to the
poor and disabled and some extra help for hospitals
that serve a high percentage of medicaid
recipients.
Legislature Carries On
04/24/2007 09:27 PM
At this point, it looks
as though this year's legislative assembly is on
course to set a record for the longest session in
recent history.
The House and the Senate continue to try work out disagreements on property tax, higher education, and other issues. Getting less attention from the press, but still very important is the Department of Human Services budget (SB 2012.) Senators refused to accept a conference committee report that reduced the total funding in the bill to a level less than even the Governor's request. After more consideration, conferees have improved the bill by providing more funding for programs assisting the developmentally disabled and allowing "continuous eligibility" for medicaid recipients.
The latest agreement now goes to the floors of both chambers for approval.
The House and the Senate continue to try work out disagreements on property tax, higher education, and other issues. Getting less attention from the press, but still very important is the Department of Human Services budget (SB 2012.) Senators refused to accept a conference committee report that reduced the total funding in the bill to a level less than even the Governor's request. After more consideration, conferees have improved the bill by providing more funding for programs assisting the developmentally disabled and allowing "continuous eligibility" for medicaid recipients.
The latest agreement now goes to the floors of both chambers for approval.
Prison Funding
04/12/2007 10:50 AM
The Forum has a good
story discussing the challenges North
Dakota legislators face concerning how to balance
incarceration and rehabilitation and treatment.
For a Catholic perspective, check out
Responsibility, Rehabilitation, and
Restoration: a Catholic Perspective on Crime and
Criminal Justice.
Conference Committee to Begin Work on Human Services Budget
04/09/2007 09:19 AM
The conference
committee working on Senate Bill 2012, the Department
of Human Services budget begins work today. The
committee will probably work many days to resolve the
differences between the House and Senate versions of
this important bill.
Bill Updates
03/30/2007 05:40 PM
Here's an update on
some bills we are still following:
HB 1466 - the abortion trigger ban, is still on the Senate floor calendar, where it has been for a week. Expect the Senate to vote on it next week.
SB 2012 - the Department of Human Services budget. The two chambers will probably appoint a conference committee to meet next week. The Senate members and House members have different priorities with regards to this budget. Working out those differences could take some time. Some of the issues: a payment increase for providers of care to nursing home residents and developmentally disabled persons, continuous eligibility for Medicaid recipients, increased Medicaid support for hospitals, and child advocacy centers.
HB 1463 - expansion of children's health insurance. A conference committee needs to be appointed, which will probably wait until the continuous eligibility issue in SB 2012 is resolved.
HB 1015 - Department of Corrections budget. The Senate restored requested funding to convert temporary positions to two full-time chaplains. The Big Question - whether to build a new prison, remodel an existing prison, or neither - is far from settled. It could be one of the last issues settled this session.
SB 2103 - Coverage of forensic exam costs for victims of sexual assault. This bill passed the House but only after it was amended. It now returns to the Senate.
HB 1472 - Presence of sexual offenders on school property. The Senate amended this bill to address, among other things, suggestions made by the Catholic Conference and the State Association of Nonpublic Schools as to how it applies to church/school property. It now goes back to the House.
HB 1466 - the abortion trigger ban, is still on the Senate floor calendar, where it has been for a week. Expect the Senate to vote on it next week.
SB 2012 - the Department of Human Services budget. The two chambers will probably appoint a conference committee to meet next week. The Senate members and House members have different priorities with regards to this budget. Working out those differences could take some time. Some of the issues: a payment increase for providers of care to nursing home residents and developmentally disabled persons, continuous eligibility for Medicaid recipients, increased Medicaid support for hospitals, and child advocacy centers.
HB 1463 - expansion of children's health insurance. A conference committee needs to be appointed, which will probably wait until the continuous eligibility issue in SB 2012 is resolved.
HB 1015 - Department of Corrections budget. The Senate restored requested funding to convert temporary positions to two full-time chaplains. The Big Question - whether to build a new prison, remodel an existing prison, or neither - is far from settled. It could be one of the last issues settled this session.
SB 2103 - Coverage of forensic exam costs for victims of sexual assault. This bill passed the House but only after it was amended. It now returns to the Senate.
HB 1472 - Presence of sexual offenders on school property. The Senate amended this bill to address, among other things, suggestions made by the Catholic Conference and the State Association of Nonpublic Schools as to how it applies to church/school property. It now goes back to the House.
Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Moving to Department of Commerce?
03/29/2007 07:55 PM
The 2005 Legislative
Assembly created an Office of Faith-based and
Community Initiatives in the Governor's office. The
office had no funding and the responsibilities were
given to the Governor's Chief of Staff.
This session, it looks like the legislature will move the office to the Department of Commerce and give it some funding. The changes appear in the appropriation bills for the Governor and the Deparment of Commerce.
This session, it looks like the legislature will move the office to the Department of Commerce and give it some funding. The changes appear in the appropriation bills for the Governor and the Deparment of Commerce.
Activities of Interest - March 23-30
03/24/2007 10:46 AM
There are no hearings
scheduled for next week. The legislators will be
focusing on bringing bills to the floor and on
conference committees to work out differences between
House and Senate versions of bills.
This is a difficult time for the general public and even experienced lobbyists to stay on top of what is happening at the legislature. We will try to post up-to-date information on the website.
This is a difficult time for the general public and even experienced lobbyists to stay on top of what is happening at the legislature. We will try to post up-to-date information on the website.
Human Services Budget Trimmed - Right Priorities?
03/23/2007 06:27 PM
The House
Appropriations Committee has reduced funding for a
long list of items in House Bill 2012, the Department
of Human Services Budget. It may take a few days to
fully ascertain the impact of the many amendments
adopted to the bill, assuming they are included in
the bill's final version. Since the Senate version of
the bill differs, the bill will end-up in a
conference committee for final changes.
Lawmaking, especially when it comes to appropriating state funds, is about prioritizing. The ultimate test of the state's budget is how it effects the least among us. The programs of the Department of Human Services serve those people, particularly those who, for no fault of their own, face unique challenges and disadvantages. We hope and pray that the final budget reflects our obligations to our neighbors most in need.
Lawmaking, especially when it comes to appropriating state funds, is about prioritizing. The ultimate test of the state's budget is how it effects the least among us. The programs of the Department of Human Services serve those people, particularly those who, for no fault of their own, face unique challenges and disadvantages. We hope and pray that the final budget reflects our obligations to our neighbors most in need.
Hearings of Interest - March 19 - 23
03/16/2007 04:31 PM
03/19/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 -- DHS Appropriation.
Roughrider Room
03/19/07 9:00 AM SB 2103 -- Forensic exam costs for sexual assault victims. House Conference Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM HCR3004 -- Study child custody, visitation, and child support in this state. Red River Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM SCR4019 -- A concurrent resolution urging Congress to reauthorize the state children's health insurance program. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM SCR4028 -- study the feasibility and desirability of establishing a paternity registry. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM SCR4029 -- study the feasibility and desirability of transferring the facilities and property of the State Hospital from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 11:30 AM SB 2187 -- funding to emergency shelter programs and for providing funding for planning administrative costs associated with the housing and urban development's continuum of care homeless assistance program. House Conference Room
03/19/07 3:00 PM HB 1404 -- creating a legislative council medical assistance committee. Harvest Room
03/19/07 4:00 PM SB 2070 -- Aging and disability resource center Roughrider Room
03/20/07 8:00 AM SB 2302 -- grants to domestic violence sexual assault organizations. Roughrider Room
03/20/07 9:00 AM SCR4008 -- study issues affecting the delivery of child welfare services in the state. Fort Union Room
03/20/07 9:00 AM SCR4018 -- expressing support for long-term care choices, including home and community-based services, for North Dakotans with disabilities and older adults. Fort Union Room
03/20/07 9:00 AM SCR4025 -- study funding a program to provide services to youth in foster care who are preparing to transition to adulthood and for youth between 18 and 21 years of age who have left foster care and need assistance. Fort Union Room
03/20/07 10:30 AM HCR3041 -- study the trends and correlations of property tax revenue in relation to funding human service delivery in individual counties. Red River Room
03/21/07 7:00 AM SB 2012 -- DHS Appropriation Roughrider Room
03/21/07 9:30 AM HCR3046 -- study ways in which various public and private entities can cooperate to promote healthy lifestyles for children. Red River Room
03/22/07 10:00 AM SCR4022 -- urging Congress and the President to continue to pursue peace in Iraq and Afghanistan. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 9:00 AM SB 2103 -- Forensic exam costs for sexual assault victims. House Conference Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM HCR3004 -- Study child custody, visitation, and child support in this state. Red River Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM SCR4019 -- A concurrent resolution urging Congress to reauthorize the state children's health insurance program. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM SCR4028 -- study the feasibility and desirability of establishing a paternity registry. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 10:00 AM SCR4029 -- study the feasibility and desirability of transferring the facilities and property of the State Hospital from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Fort Union Room
03/19/07 11:30 AM SB 2187 -- funding to emergency shelter programs and for providing funding for planning administrative costs associated with the housing and urban development's continuum of care homeless assistance program. House Conference Room
03/19/07 3:00 PM HB 1404 -- creating a legislative council medical assistance committee. Harvest Room
03/19/07 4:00 PM SB 2070 -- Aging and disability resource center Roughrider Room
03/20/07 8:00 AM SB 2302 -- grants to domestic violence sexual assault organizations. Roughrider Room
03/20/07 9:00 AM SCR4008 -- study issues affecting the delivery of child welfare services in the state. Fort Union Room
03/20/07 9:00 AM SCR4018 -- expressing support for long-term care choices, including home and community-based services, for North Dakotans with disabilities and older adults. Fort Union Room
03/20/07 9:00 AM SCR4025 -- study funding a program to provide services to youth in foster care who are preparing to transition to adulthood and for youth between 18 and 21 years of age who have left foster care and need assistance. Fort Union Room
03/20/07 10:30 AM HCR3041 -- study the trends and correlations of property tax revenue in relation to funding human service delivery in individual counties. Red River Room
03/21/07 7:00 AM SB 2012 -- DHS Appropriation Roughrider Room
03/21/07 9:30 AM HCR3046 -- study ways in which various public and private entities can cooperate to promote healthy lifestyles for children. Red River Room
03/22/07 10:00 AM SCR4022 -- urging Congress and the President to continue to pursue peace in Iraq and Afghanistan. Fort Union Room
Hearings of Interest - March 12-16
03/09/2007 09:27 AM
03/12/07 8:00 AM SB 2256 - Relating to sex offenders
on school property. Prairie Room
03/12/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 - Department of Human Services Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/12/07 8:30 AM SB 2309 - Relating to high school coursework requirements. Pioneer Room
03/12/07 10:30 AM HB 1136 - Immunizations and waiver of immunization requirements. Red River Room
03/12/07 11:00 AM HB 1435 - Child immunizations. Red River Room
03/12/07 2:45 PM SB 2012 - Department of Human Services Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/13/07 9:00 AM SB 2181 - Consent by minors for prenatal care. Fort Union Room
03/13/07 9:00 AM HB 1472 - Presence near schools of certain sexual offenders. Fort Lincoln Room
03/13/07 10:30 AM HB 1466 - prohibition of the performance of abortions. Fort Lincoln Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM HCR3012 - study the determination of the cost of elementary and secondary education. Missouri River Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM SCR4032 - study ways in which schools and school districts can better identify high-risk students and provide programs designed to reduce the incidences of high-risk behaviors that can lead to suicide attempts. Pioneer Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM SB 2212 - Relating to health care directives. Fort Union Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM SB 2308 - Health care directives and capacity. Fort Union Room
03/15/07 8:30 AM SB 2278 - County and township zoning regulation of concentrated animal feeding operations and a repository for zoning regulations. Peace Garden Room
03/15/07 8:30 AM HB 1463 - Relating to eligibility under the state children's health insurance program -- Appropriation hearing. Harvest Room
03/15/07 9:30 AM HB 1420 - Relating to zoning by counties and townships. Roosevelt Park Room
03/15/07 9:45 AM HB 1471 - Relating to state department of health programs to educate about the human papilloma virus; and to provide an appropriation. Harvest Room
03/15/07 2:30 PM HCR3061 - study the financial and environmental impact of confined animal feeding operations on individual property owners and local communities and develop clear, concise, and consistent laws governing the siting and regulation of confined animal feeding operations. Roosevelt Park Room
03/15/07 3:15 PM SB 2121 - Department of Labor name change to Department of Labor and Human Rights. Fort Union Room
3/16/07 9:00 AM HB 1319 - Use of and liability for deadly force. Fort Lincoln Room
03/12/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 - Department of Human Services Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/12/07 8:30 AM SB 2309 - Relating to high school coursework requirements. Pioneer Room
03/12/07 10:30 AM HB 1136 - Immunizations and waiver of immunization requirements. Red River Room
03/12/07 11:00 AM HB 1435 - Child immunizations. Red River Room
03/12/07 2:45 PM SB 2012 - Department of Human Services Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/13/07 9:00 AM SB 2181 - Consent by minors for prenatal care. Fort Union Room
03/13/07 9:00 AM HB 1472 - Presence near schools of certain sexual offenders. Fort Lincoln Room
03/13/07 10:30 AM HB 1466 - prohibition of the performance of abortions. Fort Lincoln Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM HCR3012 - study the determination of the cost of elementary and secondary education. Missouri River Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM SCR4032 - study ways in which schools and school districts can better identify high-risk students and provide programs designed to reduce the incidences of high-risk behaviors that can lead to suicide attempts. Pioneer Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM SB 2212 - Relating to health care directives. Fort Union Room
03/14/07 9:00 AM SB 2308 - Health care directives and capacity. Fort Union Room
03/15/07 8:30 AM SB 2278 - County and township zoning regulation of concentrated animal feeding operations and a repository for zoning regulations. Peace Garden Room
03/15/07 8:30 AM HB 1463 - Relating to eligibility under the state children's health insurance program -- Appropriation hearing. Harvest Room
03/15/07 9:30 AM HB 1420 - Relating to zoning by counties and townships. Roosevelt Park Room
03/15/07 9:45 AM HB 1471 - Relating to state department of health programs to educate about the human papilloma virus; and to provide an appropriation. Harvest Room
03/15/07 2:30 PM HCR3061 - study the financial and environmental impact of confined animal feeding operations on individual property owners and local communities and develop clear, concise, and consistent laws governing the siting and regulation of confined animal feeding operations. Roosevelt Park Room
03/15/07 3:15 PM SB 2121 - Department of Labor name change to Department of Labor and Human Rights. Fort Union Room
3/16/07 9:00 AM HB 1319 - Use of and liability for deadly force. Fort Lincoln Room
Action Alert: Help Adults Adopting Special Kids
03/08/2007 07:28 PM
Please contact members
of the Human Resources Division of the House
Appropriations Committee and ask them to increase
support for the Adults Adopting Special Kids program.
Specifically, ask them to include the "adoption pay
points" request in the SB 2012, the Department of
Human Services budget. Go here to find out
more.
"E-Mail Helper" will
automatically prepare a sample e-mail message
for you to send. Try revising it with your own
words. Be sure to include your name! Thank
you.
More information.
Catholic Charities Calls for Additional Funding for Adoption Program
03/03/2007 10:45 AM
Leanne
Johnson of Catholic Charities of
North Dakota serves as the Adoption
Director of the for AASK (Adults Adopting Special
Kids). The AASK
program is a collaborative effort between Catholic
Charities North Dakota and PATH ND, Inc.
This program contracts with the ND Department of
Human Services to provide adoption services for
children in the foster care system, many of whom
have special needs. The program
provides a wide range of adoption services,
including recruitment services, adoption home
assessments, adoption placement and post-placement
services, as well as post-adoption support
services.
Currently, the AASK Program is involved with 160 additional children in various stages of permanency planning, known as concurrent planning. In addition, the program is actively working to place 85 waiting children for adoption, 15 of whom do not have an identified adoptive family. There are roughly 26 children in adoptive placement awaiting the legal finalization of their adoption. This reflects a total number of 271 children receiving AASK services. Furthermore, the program is actively working with 97 families, providing adoption preparation, assessment or placement supervision services. The program is aware of 84 additional families throughout the state who are awaiting services. These families have attended the required pre-service training and are awaiting an adoptive home assessment. It is estimated that at least half of these families are ready to move to the next step of the process, but program staffing limitations are hindering more active involvement. The program has utilized the services of a contract provider to help meet this need; however, this has not been a solution to the greater problem. Children and families are still waiting.
On Wednesday, March 1, Leanne Johnson testified before the House Resources Division of the House Appropriations Committee asking that the committee included the needed additional funding in the Department of Human Services Appropriation Bill (SB 2012.)
Please contact the members of the committee and ask them to include the “Adoption Pay Points" optional request in SB 2012.
Currently, the AASK Program is involved with 160 additional children in various stages of permanency planning, known as concurrent planning. In addition, the program is actively working to place 85 waiting children for adoption, 15 of whom do not have an identified adoptive family. There are roughly 26 children in adoptive placement awaiting the legal finalization of their adoption. This reflects a total number of 271 children receiving AASK services. Furthermore, the program is actively working with 97 families, providing adoption preparation, assessment or placement supervision services. The program is aware of 84 additional families throughout the state who are awaiting services. These families have attended the required pre-service training and are awaiting an adoptive home assessment. It is estimated that at least half of these families are ready to move to the next step of the process, but program staffing limitations are hindering more active involvement. The program has utilized the services of a contract provider to help meet this need; however, this has not been a solution to the greater problem. Children and families are still waiting.
On Wednesday, March 1, Leanne Johnson testified before the House Resources Division of the House Appropriations Committee asking that the committee included the needed additional funding in the Department of Human Services Appropriation Bill (SB 2012.)
Please contact the members of the committee and ask them to include the “Adoption Pay Points" optional request in SB 2012.
House Committee Hearing Testimony on Human Service Budget
03/02/2007 02:07 PM
The
Human Resource Division
of the House Appropriations Committee
continues to hear testimony on the Department of
Human Services Appropriation Budget
(Senate Bill
2012.)
On Wednesday the committee took public testimony
on the bill. (Most other testimony is presented by
Department representatives.)
The state's budget, particularly the Department of Human Service appropriation, is moral statement about the state's priorities and its commitment to assisting those most in need. The Department funds many worthwhile programs. A few programs of particular interest to the North Dakota Catholic Conference which are in need of additional funding are:
- reimbursement for most Medicaid providers at an additional 5% per year;
- Medicaid reimbursement for hospitals up to the Medicare reimbursement level;
- additional funding for the Adults Adopting Special Kids program;
- adequate funding for Medicaid and S-CHIP to cover more children who are presently uninsured.
Please contact the committee members and ask them to support these needed additions to Senate Bill 2012.
The state's budget, particularly the Department of Human Service appropriation, is moral statement about the state's priorities and its commitment to assisting those most in need. The Department funds many worthwhile programs. A few programs of particular interest to the North Dakota Catholic Conference which are in need of additional funding are:
- reimbursement for most Medicaid providers at an additional 5% per year;
- Medicaid reimbursement for hospitals up to the Medicare reimbursement level;
- additional funding for the Adults Adopting Special Kids program;
- adequate funding for Medicaid and S-CHIP to cover more children who are presently uninsured.
Please contact the committee members and ask them to support these needed additions to Senate Bill 2012.
Hearings of Interest - March 5 - 9
03/02/2007 12:44 PM
03/05/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 Department of Human
Services Appropriations. Roughrider Room
03/05/07 9:00 AM - HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriations. Harvest Room
03/05/07 9:00 AM - SB 2313 grants to school districts for automated external defibrillators. Fort Union Room
03/05/07 9:30 AM - SB 2302 grants to domestic violence sexual assault organizations. Fort Union Room
03/05/07 10:30 AM - HB 1463 Relating to eligibility under the state children's health insurance program. Red River Room
03/05/07 10:45 AM - SB 2252 Relating to health insurance coverage of suicide-related medical services. Fort Union Room
03/05/07 11:15 AM - HB 1471 Relating to state department of health programs to educate about the human papilloma virus. Red River Room
03/05/07 2:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/06/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/06/07 8:30 AM - SB 2103 Forensic exam costs for victims of sexual assault. Prairie Room
03/06/07 9:45 AM - HB 1404 legislative council medical assistance committee. Red River Room
03/06/07 10:00 AM - SB 2303 creation of a health information technology steering committee. Fort Union Room
03/06/07 10:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/06/07 10:30 AM - HB 1452 limitations on the civil liability of a charitable organization. Fort Lincoln Room
03/06/07 2:30 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/07/07 8:00 AM - SB 2256 Relating to sex offenders on school property. Prairie Room
03/07/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/07/07 10:30 AM - SB 2163 Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. Fort Union Room
03/07/07 11:00 AM - HC R3056 study the search for and identification of missing persons. Fort Lincoln Room
03/07/07 2:00 PM SB 2243 community service supervision grants. Roughrider Room
03/07/07 2:30 PM HCR3008 study the issues of fairness, equity, and the best interests of children as they relate to issues of child custody and visitation. Fort Lincoln Room
03/08/07 8:30 AM - SB 2014 Protection and Advocacy Appropriation. Roughrider Room
3/09/07 9:00 AM - HB 1474 county or city property tax levy for support of services of nonprofit organizations eligible for grants from the domestic violence and sexual assault prevention fund. Red River Room
3/09/07 9:30 AM - HB 1390 Relating to liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children. Harvest Room
03/05/07 9:00 AM - HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriations. Harvest Room
03/05/07 9:00 AM - SB 2313 grants to school districts for automated external defibrillators. Fort Union Room
03/05/07 9:30 AM - SB 2302 grants to domestic violence sexual assault organizations. Fort Union Room
03/05/07 10:30 AM - HB 1463 Relating to eligibility under the state children's health insurance program. Red River Room
03/05/07 10:45 AM - SB 2252 Relating to health insurance coverage of suicide-related medical services. Fort Union Room
03/05/07 11:15 AM - HB 1471 Relating to state department of health programs to educate about the human papilloma virus. Red River Room
03/05/07 2:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/06/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/06/07 8:30 AM - SB 2103 Forensic exam costs for victims of sexual assault. Prairie Room
03/06/07 9:45 AM - HB 1404 legislative council medical assistance committee. Red River Room
03/06/07 10:00 AM - SB 2303 creation of a health information technology steering committee. Fort Union Room
03/06/07 10:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/06/07 10:30 AM - HB 1452 limitations on the civil liability of a charitable organization. Fort Lincoln Room
03/06/07 2:30 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/07/07 8:00 AM - SB 2256 Relating to sex offenders on school property. Prairie Room
03/07/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
03/07/07 10:30 AM - SB 2163 Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. Fort Union Room
03/07/07 11:00 AM - HC R3056 study the search for and identification of missing persons. Fort Lincoln Room
03/07/07 2:00 PM SB 2243 community service supervision grants. Roughrider Room
03/07/07 2:30 PM HCR3008 study the issues of fairness, equity, and the best interests of children as they relate to issues of child custody and visitation. Fort Lincoln Room
03/08/07 8:30 AM - SB 2014 Protection and Advocacy Appropriation. Roughrider Room
3/09/07 9:00 AM - HB 1474 county or city property tax levy for support of services of nonprofit organizations eligible for grants from the domestic violence and sexual assault prevention fund. Red River Room
3/09/07 9:30 AM - HB 1390 Relating to liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children. Harvest Room
Listen to Homily at Mass for Legislators
02/25/2007 03:32 PM
You can now listen to
Bishop Samuel Aquila's homily given at the Mass for
Legislators. Use this player:
Or download this mp3 file to save it to your hard drive.
Or download this mp3 file to save it to your hard drive.
Hearings of Interest -- Feb. 26 - March 2
02/23/2007 07:53 PM
02/26 /07
11:15 AM - SCR4032 study ways in which schools and
school districts can better identify high-risk
students and provide programs designed to reduce the
incidences of high-risk behaviors that can lead to
suicide attempts -- Red River Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2074 Housing discrimination investigation -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2075 Definition of discrimination -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2076 Department of Labor investigations -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM - SB 2041 premarital counseling and marriage license fee -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM HB 1023 indigent defense program-- Harvest Room
02/26/07 9:45 AM - SB 2078 family Care income tax credit -- Fort Totten Room
02/26/07 10:30 AM - SB 2312 alternatives-to-abortion services program -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 11:00 AM - SB 2070 Aging and disability resource center -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 11:15 AM - SB 2134 Medicaid Prescription Drug Monitoring Program -- Roughrider Room
02/26/07 2:30 PM - SCR4024 study universal health care for North Dakotans -- Roosevelt Park Room
02/26/07 3:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2138 Relating to sexual offense medical testing; relating to an individual's living arrangements -- Prairie Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2187 emergency shelter programs -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2326 Relating to medical assistance and other health coverage for families of children with disabilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM HB 1155 Relating to the comprehensive health association of North Dakota -- Red River Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 10:00 AM - HB 1232 provide for umbilical cord blood donation -- Red River Room
02/27/07 10:15 AM - HB 1172 Relating to a requirement for North Dakota studies --Missouri River Room
02/27/07 10:15 AM - HB 1172 Relating to a requirement for North Dakota studies --Missouri River Room
02/27/07 10:30 AM - SB 2186 early childhood care workforce development and department of human services establishment of a quality improvement rating system for early childhood care facilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 11:00 AM - SB 2354 instruction in physical education --Pioneer Room
02/27/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 3:00 PM - SB 2359 Relating to maternity homes -- Fort Union Room
02/28/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2371 home education by grandparents --Pioneer Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2215 income tax credit for dependent care expenses --Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM HB 1390 Relating to liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children -- Red River Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM - SB 2363 Relating to an individual or corporate income tax credit for planned gifts to nonprofit organizations and contributions to qualified endowments -- Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 11:00 AM - SB 2385 school district nursing services grant program --Pioneer Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2276 prevention and advisory council -- Fort Union Room
03/01/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
03/01/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2074 Housing discrimination investigation -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2075 Definition of discrimination -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2076 Department of Labor investigations -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM - SB 2041 premarital counseling and marriage license fee -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM HB 1023 indigent defense program-- Harvest Room
02/26/07 9:45 AM - SB 2078 family Care income tax credit -- Fort Totten Room
02/26/07 10:30 AM - SB 2312 alternatives-to-abortion services program -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 11:00 AM - SB 2070 Aging and disability resource center -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 11:15 AM - SB 2134 Medicaid Prescription Drug Monitoring Program -- Roughrider Room
02/26/07 2:30 PM - SCR4024 study universal health care for North Dakotans -- Roosevelt Park Room
02/26/07 3:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2138 Relating to sexual offense medical testing; relating to an individual's living arrangements -- Prairie Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2187 emergency shelter programs -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2326 Relating to medical assistance and other health coverage for families of children with disabilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM HB 1155 Relating to the comprehensive health association of North Dakota -- Red River Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 10:00 AM - HB 1232 provide for umbilical cord blood donation -- Red River Room
02/27/07 10:15 AM - HB 1172 Relating to a requirement for North Dakota studies --Missouri River Room
02/27/07 10:15 AM - HB 1172 Relating to a requirement for North Dakota studies --Missouri River Room
02/27/07 10:30 AM - SB 2186 early childhood care workforce development and department of human services establishment of a quality improvement rating system for early childhood care facilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 11:00 AM - SB 2354 instruction in physical education --Pioneer Room
02/27/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 3:00 PM - SB 2359 Relating to maternity homes -- Fort Union Room
02/28/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2371 home education by grandparents --Pioneer Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2215 income tax credit for dependent care expenses --Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM HB 1390 Relating to liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children -- Red River Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM - SB 2363 Relating to an individual or corporate income tax credit for planned gifts to nonprofit organizations and contributions to qualified endowments -- Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 11:00 AM - SB 2385 school district nursing services grant program --Pioneer Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2276 prevention and advisory council -- Fort Union Room
03/01/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
03/01/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
Bishop Zipfel to Legislators: Lead People to Truth and to the Demands of Truth
02/20/2007 03:07 PM
Bishop Paul Zipfel
has written a letter to
North Dakota legislators and Catholics
on the Church's
teachings on the moral dimensions of public life.
The letter originally appeared in the January
issue of the Dakota Catholic
Action.
The letter is now available on
our website.
Crossover Break
02/16/2007 04:12 PM
The Senate
and the House have acted upon all the bills
introduced in their respective chambers and will take
a break until February 21.
The break is a good time to contact your legislators while they are back in their districts.
The break is a good time to contact your legislators while they are back in their districts.
Hearings of Interest - February 21 - 23
02/16/2007 04:00 PM
The North Dakota Legislative Assembly is on its
"crossover" break. It will reconvene on Wednesday,
February 21.
02/21/07 9:00 AM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/21/07 9:00 AM SCR4008 study issues affecting the delivery of child welfare services. Red River Room
02/21/07 10:30 AM SB 2130 Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities for Children. Fort Union Room
02/21/07 2:00 PM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/22/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/22/07 10:30 AM SCR4022 urging Congress and the President to pursue peace in Iraq and disengage American combat forces from Iraq duty. Red River Room
02/22/07 2:00 PM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/23/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/21/07 9:00 AM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/21/07 9:00 AM SCR4008 study issues affecting the delivery of child welfare services. Red River Room
02/21/07 10:30 AM SB 2130 Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities for Children. Fort Union Room
02/21/07 2:00 PM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/22/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/22/07 10:30 AM SCR4022 urging Congress and the President to pursue peace in Iraq and disengage American combat forces from Iraq duty. Red River Room
02/22/07 2:00 PM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
02/23/07 8:30 AM SB 2012 DHS Appropriation. Roughrider Room
Bishop Aquila's Homily Now a Column
02/14/2007 09:23 PM
Bishop Samuel
Aquila gave the homily at the Mass for Legislators
and Public Officials on January 18. He has now
released an edited version of the homily as a column
for the diocesan newspaper. The column is
also on our web site.
For more information, see the post below.
For more information, see the post below.
Crossover Approaches -- What Remains
02/10/2007 11:19 AM
Friday,
February 16 is "crossover" day. The Senate must act
on all Senate bills and the House must act on all
House bills by this date. Most of the work next week
will be done in the appropriation committees. Those
committees must finalize and send out all bills with
an appropriation so that the full chambers can vote
on them by Friday.
Here are some bills that still need final action before crossover:
SB 2400 -- State policy on childbirth and abortion. The Senate Human Services committee is looking over some proposed amendments. The North Dakota Catholic Conference supports the bill's intent and is waiting to see what comes out of the committee.
HB 1463 -- Expands health care coverage for low income children. To express your support, contact the members of the Human Resources Division of the House Appropriations Committee.
SB 2012 -- The Department of Human Services Appropriations bill. The Senate Appropriations Committee will finish work on this bill this week.
HB 1420 SB 2331 -- The bills addressing the ability of local government bodies to regulate animal feedlot operations. For how the principle of subsidiarity impacts this discussion, go here.
SB 2371 -- Allows grandparents to provide home education, clarifies and revises some language concerning home education. The bill received a Do Pass recommendation from the committee and is headed to the Senate floor.
Here are some bills that still need final action before crossover:
SB 2400 -- State policy on childbirth and abortion. The Senate Human Services committee is looking over some proposed amendments. The North Dakota Catholic Conference supports the bill's intent and is waiting to see what comes out of the committee.
HB 1463 -- Expands health care coverage for low income children. To express your support, contact the members of the Human Resources Division of the House Appropriations Committee.
SB 2012 -- The Department of Human Services Appropriations bill. The Senate Appropriations Committee will finish work on this bill this week.
HB 1420 SB 2331 -- The bills addressing the ability of local government bodies to regulate animal feedlot operations. For how the principle of subsidiarity impacts this discussion, go here.
SB 2371 -- Allows grandparents to provide home education, clarifies and revises some language concerning home education. The bill received a Do Pass recommendation from the committee and is headed to the Senate floor.
Senate Passes Department of Labor Name Change
02/08/2007 03:44 PM
Senate Bill
2121,
which would change the name of the Department of
Labor to the Department of Labor and Human Rights,
passed the Senate yesterday 29 to 18.
Budget Forecast on Tuesday
02/02/2007 04:29 PM
For some, it
is the most anticipated -- or dreaded -- day of a
North Dakota legislative session: the day the revenue
forecast is released. Unlike other legislative
sessions, this year's forecast will come out before
the crossover date. This could make it easier for the
two chambers to better deal with the appropriation
bills still in their committees before they have to
send them over to the other chamber.
The forecast will be released on Tuesday, February 6 at 8:00 a.m.
The forecast will be released on Tuesday, February 6 at 8:00 a.m.
Hearings of Interest - February 5-9
02/02/2007 03:50 PM
02/26 /07
11:15 AM SCR4032 study ways in which schools and
school districts can better identify high-risk
students and provide programs designed to reduce the
incidences of high-risk behaviors that can lead to
suicide attempts -- -- Red River Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2074 -- Housing discrimination investigation -- -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2075 -- Definition of discrimination -- -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2076 Department of Labor investigations -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM - SB 2041 marriage license fee discount for premarital counseling -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM HB 1023 Indigent Defense Appropriation --Harvest Room
02/26/07 9:45 AM - SB 2078 Family Care income tax credit -- Fort Totten Room
02/26/07 10:30 AM - SB 2312 alternatives-to-abortion services program -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 11:15 AM - SB 2134 Medicaid Prescription Drug Monitoring Program -- Roughrider Room
02/26/07 2:30 PM - SCR4024 study universal health care for North Dakotans -- Roosevelt Park Room
02/26/07 3:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2138 Relating to sexual offense medical testing; relating to an individual's living arrangements -- Prairie Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2187 emergency shelter programs -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2326 medical assistance and other health coverage for families of children with disabilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM HB 1155 Relating to the comprehensive health association of North Dakota -- Red River Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 10:00 AM - HB 1232 provide for umbilical cord blood donation -- Red River Room
02/27/07 10:15 AM - HB 1172 Relating to a requirement for North Dakota studies --Missouri River Room
02/27/07 10:30 AM - SB 2186 early childhood care workforce development and department of human services establishment of a quality improvement rating system for early childhood care facilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 11:00 AM - SB 2354 instruction in physical education --Pioneer Room
02/27/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 3:00 PM - SB 2359 Relating to maternity homes -- Fort Union Room
02/28/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2371 home education by grandparents -- Pioneer Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2215 income tax credit for dependent care expenses -- Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM HB 1390 liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children -- Red River Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM - SB 2363 individual or corporate income tax credit for planned gifts to nonprofit organizations and contributions to qualified endowments held by nonprofit organizations -- Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 11:00 AM - SB 2385 school district nursing services grant program --Pioneer Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2276 prevention and advisory council -- Fort Union Room
03/01/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
03/01/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2074 -- Housing discrimination investigation -- -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2075 -- Definition of discrimination -- -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 8:00 AM - SB 2076 Department of Labor investigations -- Prairie Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM - SB 2041 marriage license fee discount for premarital counseling -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 9:30 AM HB 1023 Indigent Defense Appropriation --Harvest Room
02/26/07 9:45 AM - SB 2078 Family Care income tax credit -- Fort Totten Room
02/26/07 10:30 AM - SB 2312 alternatives-to-abortion services program -- Fort Union Room
02/26/07 11:15 AM - SB 2134 Medicaid Prescription Drug Monitoring Program -- Roughrider Room
02/26/07 2:30 PM - SCR4024 study universal health care for North Dakotans -- Roosevelt Park Room
02/26/07 3:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2138 Relating to sexual offense medical testing; relating to an individual's living arrangements -- Prairie Room
02/27/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2187 emergency shelter programs -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:00 AM - SB 2326 medical assistance and other health coverage for families of children with disabilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM HB 1155 Relating to the comprehensive health association of North Dakota -- Red River Room
02/27/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 10:00 AM - HB 1232 provide for umbilical cord blood donation -- Red River Room
02/27/07 10:15 AM - HB 1172 Relating to a requirement for North Dakota studies --Missouri River Room
02/27/07 10:30 AM - SB 2186 early childhood care workforce development and department of human services establishment of a quality improvement rating system for early childhood care facilities -- Fort Union Room
02/27/07 11:00 AM - SB 2354 instruction in physical education --Pioneer Room
02/27/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
02/27/07 3:00 PM - SB 2359 Relating to maternity homes -- Fort Union Room
02/28/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2371 home education by grandparents -- Pioneer Room
02/28/07 9:00 AM - SB 2215 income tax credit for dependent care expenses -- Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM HB 1390 liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children -- Red River Room
02/28/07 10:30 AM - SB 2363 individual or corporate income tax credit for planned gifts to nonprofit organizations and contributions to qualified endowments held by nonprofit organizations -- Fort Totten Room
02/28/07 11:00 AM - SB 2385 school district nursing services grant program --Pioneer Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation Public Testimony -- Roughrider Room
02/28/07 2:00 PM - SB 2276 prevention and advisory council -- Fort Union Room
03/01/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
03/01/07 2:45 PM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 8:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
3/02/07 9:30 AM - SB 2012 DHS Appropriation -- Roughrider Room
Senate Passes Premarital Counseling Bill
01/31/2007 07:38 PM
The North Dakota Senate
passed a bill to provide a discount in the cost of a
marriage license fee for those couples who have
received premarital counseling. The bill came out of
a interim legislative committee that studied the
state's laws on marriage. The bill, SB 2041, 32 to
14. It now goes to the House.
Find Out How Your Legislator Voted
01/27/2007 11:08 AM
So you want to know how
your legislator voted on a particular bill?
We have posted a
step-by-step guide on how to find out how your
legislator voted on a bill of interest to
you.
Testimonies On-Line
01/27/2007 10:59 AM
We have started putting
on-line testimonies given by
the North Dakota Catholic
Conference. Keep in mind that not all of
the testimony provided by the conference comes in
written form.
Hearings of Interest - January 29 - February 2
01/26/2007 06:57 PM
01/29/07 8:30 AM - HB 1471 programs to educate about
the human papilloma virus- Fort Union Room
01/29/07 9:00 AM - SB 2184 school calendars and compulsory attendance - Harvest Room
01/29/07 9:15 AM - SB 2313 grants to school districts for automated external defibrillators - Missouri River Room
01/29/07 10:00 AM - SB 2414 tax credit for taxpayers who provide home education for their children - Lewis and Clark Room
01/29/07 10:30 AM - SB 2385 school district nursing services grant program - Red River Room
01/29/07 11:00 AM - HB 1292 education of English language learners; per student payments for English language learners - Pioneer Room
01/29/07 11:00 AM - SB 2309 high school coursework requirements; high school graduation requirements and student proficiency - Missouri River Room
01/29/07 2:30 PM - HB 1194 exemptions from high school instruction programs; basic, standard, and advanced programs of high school instruction; goals 2000 and school-to-work programs - Pioneer Room
01/29/07 2:30 PM - HB 1435 child immunizations - Fort Union Room
01/30/07 8:30 AM - HB 1319 use of and liability for deadly force; the use of deadly force - Prairie Room
01/30/07 9:00 AM - SB 2308 health care directive and capacity - Fort Lincoln Room
01/30/07 9:45 AM - SB 2041 marriage license fee - Appropriation Hearing - Harvest Room
01/30/07 10:15 AM - SB 2403 exemptions to the moratoriums on the expansion of basic care bed capacity and long-term care bed capacity - Red River Room
01/31/07 9:45 AM - SB 2393 student loan reduction for certain residents - Missouri River Room
02/01/07 8:30 AM - SB 2312 alternatives-to-abortion services program - Appropriation Hearing - Harvest Room
02/02/07 8:00 AM - HB 1510 expansion of the uniform group insurance program - Fort Union Room
02/02/07 9:00 AM - SB 2211 appropriation to the department of human services for assistive technology services - Harvest Room
02/02/07 9:00 AM - HB 1474 a county or city property tax levy for support of services of nonprofit organizations eligible for grants from the domestic violence and sexual assault prevention fund - Prairie Room
01/29/07 9:00 AM - SB 2184 school calendars and compulsory attendance - Harvest Room
01/29/07 9:15 AM - SB 2313 grants to school districts for automated external defibrillators - Missouri River Room
01/29/07 10:00 AM - SB 2414 tax credit for taxpayers who provide home education for their children - Lewis and Clark Room
01/29/07 10:30 AM - SB 2385 school district nursing services grant program - Red River Room
01/29/07 11:00 AM - HB 1292 education of English language learners; per student payments for English language learners - Pioneer Room
01/29/07 11:00 AM - SB 2309 high school coursework requirements; high school graduation requirements and student proficiency - Missouri River Room
01/29/07 2:30 PM - HB 1194 exemptions from high school instruction programs; basic, standard, and advanced programs of high school instruction; goals 2000 and school-to-work programs - Pioneer Room
01/29/07 2:30 PM - HB 1435 child immunizations - Fort Union Room
01/30/07 8:30 AM - HB 1319 use of and liability for deadly force; the use of deadly force - Prairie Room
01/30/07 9:00 AM - SB 2308 health care directive and capacity - Fort Lincoln Room
01/30/07 9:45 AM - SB 2041 marriage license fee - Appropriation Hearing - Harvest Room
01/30/07 10:15 AM - SB 2403 exemptions to the moratoriums on the expansion of basic care bed capacity and long-term care bed capacity - Red River Room
01/31/07 9:45 AM - SB 2393 student loan reduction for certain residents - Missouri River Room
02/01/07 8:30 AM - SB 2312 alternatives-to-abortion services program - Appropriation Hearing - Harvest Room
02/02/07 8:00 AM - HB 1510 expansion of the uniform group insurance program - Fort Union Room
02/02/07 9:00 AM - SB 2211 appropriation to the department of human services for assistive technology services - Harvest Room
02/02/07 9:00 AM - HB 1474 a county or city property tax levy for support of services of nonprofit organizations eligible for grants from the domestic violence and sexual assault prevention fund - Prairie Room
How Frightening is a Name Change?
01/19/2007 03:36 PM
SB 2121 would
do one thing -- and only one thing. It would change
the name of the Department of Labor to the Department
of Labor and Human Rights. It does not create new
"rights," grant new enforcement authority to the
state, or change the process for filing allegations
of violations of human rights.
Why then, is a name change important? For one thing, the majority of the work now done by the Department of Labor concerns human rights enforcement. A name that reflects the department's actual work makes sense and gives the public an immediately recognizable place to ask about possible human rights violations.
More importantly, an accurate name says something about the state's commitment to protecting basic human rights. The Catholic Church sees the recognition of these rights and their defense as an essential way of recognizing the human dignity inscribed by God on all human persons. See, e.g. Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, paragraphs 152 - 159. Refusal to make a simple name change dismisses, rather than affirms, these basic human rights.
Contact the Senate Industry, Business, and Labor Committee and ask them to give a "Do Pass" recommendation on Senate Bill 2121.
The committee members are:
Chairman Jerry Klein, jklein@nd.gov
Vice Chairman Nicholas Hacker, nhacker@nd.gov
Senator John Andrist, jandrist@nd.gov
Senator Terry Wanzek, tmwanzek@nd.gov
Senator Joel Heitkamp, jheitkamp@nd.gov
Senator Tracy Potter, tpotter@nd.gov
Senator Arthur Behm, abehm@nd.gov
Why then, is a name change important? For one thing, the majority of the work now done by the Department of Labor concerns human rights enforcement. A name that reflects the department's actual work makes sense and gives the public an immediately recognizable place to ask about possible human rights violations.
More importantly, an accurate name says something about the state's commitment to protecting basic human rights. The Catholic Church sees the recognition of these rights and their defense as an essential way of recognizing the human dignity inscribed by God on all human persons. See, e.g. Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, paragraphs 152 - 159. Refusal to make a simple name change dismisses, rather than affirms, these basic human rights.
Contact the Senate Industry, Business, and Labor Committee and ask them to give a "Do Pass" recommendation on Senate Bill 2121.
The committee members are:
Chairman Jerry Klein, jklein@nd.gov
Vice Chairman Nicholas Hacker, nhacker@nd.gov
Senator John Andrist, jandrist@nd.gov
Senator Terry Wanzek, tmwanzek@nd.gov
Senator Joel Heitkamp, jheitkamp@nd.gov
Senator Tracy Potter, tpotter@nd.gov
Senator Arthur Behm, abehm@nd.gov
Special Event Vendors Bill Amended
01/19/2007 02:30 PM
The House has
amended HB 1074 to address concerns expressed by the
North Dakota Catholic Conference. The bill would
require "special event organizers" to report to the
Tax Department information on vendors that sell items
at the event. Church organizations often have a
events where a small number of vendors, such as
booksellers, might be present.
The amendments would make the reporting requirement apply only to events that have ten or more vendors and not at all to events where all the proceeds go to a nonprofit.
The amendments would make the reporting requirement apply only to events that have ten or more vendors and not at all to events where all the proceeds go to a nonprofit.
Hearings of Interest - January 22 - 26
01/18/2007 10:25 PM
01/22/07 8:00 AM - HB 1466 the prohibition of the
performance of abortions - Prairie Room
01/22/07 8:30 AM* - HB 1489 protection of a preborn child - Prairie Room
01/22/07 9:00 AM* - HB 1494 Restrict funding for prenatal genetic testing used for abortion counseling - Prairie Room
01/22/07 10:00 AM* - HB 1464 Revisions to Abortion Restrictions - Prairie Room
*Note: The Judiciary Committee takes will hear a bill as soon as the previous hearing is finished. The times listed are estimates.
01/22/07 9:00 AM - HB 1438 the commencement of the elementary and secondary school year - Pioneer Room
01/22/07 9:00 AM - SB 2304 coordinators of English language learner services - Missouri River Room
01/22/07 9:00 AM - HB 1040 disorderly conduct at funeral - Fort Lincoln Room
01/22/07 10:00 AM - HB 1512 postgraduate residency training programs to provide primary health care to the uninsured and underinsured - Fort Union Room
01/22/07 10:15 AM - SB 2243 an appropriation to the department of corrections and rehabilitation to provide funding for community service supervision grants - Harvest Room
01/22/07 10:15 AM - SB 2252 health insurance coverage of suicide-related medical services - Red River Room
01/22/07 10:30 AM - HB 1436 income tax credit for employers for child care programs - Fort Totten Room
01/22/07 11:00 AM HB 1478 income tax credit for contributions to school districts of nonpublic elementary and secondary schools in this state Fort Totten Room
01/22/07 11:00 AM - SB 2326 Medical assistance and other health coverage for families of children with disabilities - Red River Room
01/22/07 2:00 PM - HB 1463 eligibility under the state children's health insurance program - Fort Union Room
01/23/07 8:00 AM - HB 1226 for limitations on for-profit activities of nonprofit organizations - Peace Garden Room
01/23/07 8:00 AM - HB 1337 the state minimum wage - Peace Garden Room
01/23/07 8:30 AM - HB 1390 liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children - Fort Union Room
01/23/07 8:30 AM - HB 1452 limitations on the civil liability of a charitable organization - Prairie Room
01/23/07 9:00 AM - SB 2276 prevention and advisory council - Red River Room
01/23/07 9:30 AM - HB 1467 for nursing facility assessments - Fort Union Room
01/23/07 9:30 AM - SB 2302 grants to domestic violence sexual assault organizations - Red River Room
01/23/07 10:00 AM - SB 2312 Alternatives-to-abortion services program - Red River Room
01/23/07 10:30 AM - SB 2303 Health information steering committee - Red River Room
01/24/07 8:00 AM - HB 1454 Minimum wage/collective bargaining - Peace Garden Room
01/24/07 9:00 AM - HB 1150 reduction of the marriage penalty under the individual income tax - Fort Totten Room
01/24/07 9:00 AM - SB 2207 assistance to parents in resolution of disputes in cases involving custody and support of children - Red River Room
01/24/07 9:00 AM - SB 2256 sex offenders on school property - Fort Lincoln Room
01/24/07 10:00 AM - HB 1482 health care for chronically or terminally ill offenders - Fort Union Room
01/24/07 10:15 AM - SB 2211 an appropriation to the department of human services for assistive technology services - Red River Room
01/24/07 10:45 AM - SB 2279 special education payments - Missouri River Room
01/24/07 11:00 AM - SB 2212 health care directives - Red River Room
01/25/07 9:00 AM - HB 1420 zoning by counties and townships - Peace Garden Room
01/25/07 9:30 AM - HB 1421 the humane treatment of animals - Peace Garden Room
01/22/07 8:30 AM* - HB 1489 protection of a preborn child - Prairie Room
01/22/07 9:00 AM* - HB 1494 Restrict funding for prenatal genetic testing used for abortion counseling - Prairie Room
01/22/07 10:00 AM* - HB 1464 Revisions to Abortion Restrictions - Prairie Room
*Note: The Judiciary Committee takes will hear a bill as soon as the previous hearing is finished. The times listed are estimates.
01/22/07 9:00 AM - HB 1438 the commencement of the elementary and secondary school year - Pioneer Room
01/22/07 9:00 AM - SB 2304 coordinators of English language learner services - Missouri River Room
01/22/07 9:00 AM - HB 1040 disorderly conduct at funeral - Fort Lincoln Room
01/22/07 10:00 AM - HB 1512 postgraduate residency training programs to provide primary health care to the uninsured and underinsured - Fort Union Room
01/22/07 10:15 AM - SB 2243 an appropriation to the department of corrections and rehabilitation to provide funding for community service supervision grants - Harvest Room
01/22/07 10:15 AM - SB 2252 health insurance coverage of suicide-related medical services - Red River Room
01/22/07 10:30 AM - HB 1436 income tax credit for employers for child care programs - Fort Totten Room
01/22/07 11:00 AM HB 1478 income tax credit for contributions to school districts of nonpublic elementary and secondary schools in this state Fort Totten Room
01/22/07 11:00 AM - SB 2326 Medical assistance and other health coverage for families of children with disabilities - Red River Room
01/22/07 2:00 PM - HB 1463 eligibility under the state children's health insurance program - Fort Union Room
01/23/07 8:00 AM - HB 1226 for limitations on for-profit activities of nonprofit organizations - Peace Garden Room
01/23/07 8:00 AM - HB 1337 the state minimum wage - Peace Garden Room
01/23/07 8:30 AM - HB 1390 liability insurance coverage for damage caused by foster children - Fort Union Room
01/23/07 8:30 AM - HB 1452 limitations on the civil liability of a charitable organization - Prairie Room
01/23/07 9:00 AM - SB 2276 prevention and advisory council - Red River Room
01/23/07 9:30 AM - HB 1467 for nursing facility assessments - Fort Union Room
01/23/07 9:30 AM - SB 2302 grants to domestic violence sexual assault organizations - Red River Room
01/23/07 10:00 AM - SB 2312 Alternatives-to-abortion services program - Red River Room
01/23/07 10:30 AM - SB 2303 Health information steering committee - Red River Room
01/24/07 8:00 AM - HB 1454 Minimum wage/collective bargaining - Peace Garden Room
01/24/07 9:00 AM - HB 1150 reduction of the marriage penalty under the individual income tax - Fort Totten Room
01/24/07 9:00 AM - SB 2207 assistance to parents in resolution of disputes in cases involving custody and support of children - Red River Room
01/24/07 9:00 AM - SB 2256 sex offenders on school property - Fort Lincoln Room
01/24/07 10:00 AM - HB 1482 health care for chronically or terminally ill offenders - Fort Union Room
01/24/07 10:15 AM - SB 2211 an appropriation to the department of human services for assistive technology services - Red River Room
01/24/07 10:45 AM - SB 2279 special education payments - Missouri River Room
01/24/07 11:00 AM - SB 2212 health care directives - Red River Room
01/25/07 9:00 AM - HB 1420 zoning by counties and townships - Peace Garden Room
01/25/07 9:30 AM - HB 1421 the humane treatment of animals - Peace Garden Room
Citizens Night at the Legislature - Tuesday, January 23, 2007
01/17/2007 02:55 PM
This is a unique
opportunity for citizens to see the North Dakota
legislature in action. Legislatives leaders are
trying to schedule "interesting" bills for that
night.
Citizens Night at the Legislature - Tuesday, January 23, 2007.
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Tours
7:00 - 7:45 p.m. - Committee Hearings
7:45 - 8:30 p.m. - Floor Sessions
Citizens Night at the Legislature - Tuesday, January 23, 2007.
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Tours
7:00 - 7:45 p.m. - Committee Hearings
7:45 - 8:30 p.m. - Floor Sessions
Hearings of Interest - January 15 through January 19
01/12/2007 08:02 PM
Monday, January 15, 2007
8:00 AM - HB 1027 Economic development package (includes college internships and low-income housing provisions.) Peace Garden Room
8:30 AM - HB 1232 Umbilical cord blood donation. Fort Union Room
9:00 AM - HB 1172 Requirement for North Dakota studies. Pioneer Room
9:30 AM - SB 2124 Long-term care insurance and medical assistance waiver provisions. Red River Room
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
9:00 AM - SB 2078 Family care income tax credit. Lewis and Clark Room
9:00 AM - SB 2187 Funding to emergency shelter programs. Red River Room
9:15 AM - SB 2184 School calendars and compulsory attendance. Missouri River Room
9:30 AM SCR4005 Study establishing a transition to independence program for young adults with mental illness. Red River Room
2:30 PM HB 1247 Income tax credit for long-term care insurance premiums. Fort Union Room
Wednesday, January 18, 2007
10:00 AM - SB 2163 Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. Red River Room
10:15 AM - SB 2121 Department of Labor name change. Roosevelt Park Room
1:00 PM SB 2012 Department of Human Services Appropriation. Harvest Room
1:00 PM SB 2131 Information provided by health insurers to DHS. Roosevelt Park Room
8:00 AM - HB 1027 Economic development package (includes college internships and low-income housing provisions.) Peace Garden Room
8:30 AM - HB 1232 Umbilical cord blood donation. Fort Union Room
9:00 AM - HB 1172 Requirement for North Dakota studies. Pioneer Room
9:30 AM - SB 2124 Long-term care insurance and medical assistance waiver provisions. Red River Room
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
9:00 AM - SB 2078 Family care income tax credit. Lewis and Clark Room
9:00 AM - SB 2187 Funding to emergency shelter programs. Red River Room
9:15 AM - SB 2184 School calendars and compulsory attendance. Missouri River Room
9:30 AM SCR4005 Study establishing a transition to independence program for young adults with mental illness. Red River Room
2:30 PM HB 1247 Income tax credit for long-term care insurance premiums. Fort Union Room
Wednesday, January 18, 2007
10:00 AM - SB 2163 Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. Red River Room
10:15 AM - SB 2121 Department of Labor name change. Roosevelt Park Room
1:00 PM SB 2012 Department of Human Services Appropriation. Harvest Room
1:00 PM SB 2131 Information provided by health insurers to DHS. Roosevelt Park Room
ND Legislature Finishes First Week
01/05/2007 07:43 PM
The 60th
North Dakota Legislative Assembly kicked-off this
week. Highlights of the week included the
Governor's State of the State
Address, the
Chief Justice's State of the
Judiciary Address, the
State of Tribal-State Relationship
Address by David Brien,
Chairman of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa
Indians.
Committees held only a few hearings this week. This could be because, as the Bismarck Tribune reports, the number of pre-filed bills is substantially less than other sessions. Expect bills to start coming in at rapid pace during the next week.
Committees held only a few hearings this week. This could be because, as the Bismarck Tribune reports, the number of pre-filed bills is substantially less than other sessions. Expect bills to start coming in at rapid pace during the next week.
Hearings of Interest - January 8 - 15
01/05/2007 06:58 PM
Here
are some of the bills scheduled for a hearing next
week. To find out more about a particular bill, go to
the Legislative Counsel web
site.
If you are planning to testify on a bill, check
the hearing schedule
to
see if the hearing time has changed. This does not
happen often, but could during this first full
week of the legislative session.
Monday, January 8, 2007
SB 2012 Department of Human Services Appropriation - - Harvest Room
January 8, 2007 at 8:30 AM
This bill, on which the committee will hold hearings throughout the week, funds most of the human service programs that help our poor and most vulnerable. It includes corporate guardianship, medical assistance, economic assistance, long-term care, and more.
HB 1129 Vital Records and Certificates - Fort Union Room
January 8, 2007 at 9:00 AM
This bill addresses birth, fetal death, marriage, and death records.
HB 1040 Disorderly Conduct at Funeral - Prairie Room
January 8, 2007 at 10:00 AM
HB 1074 Special Events and Vendors Fort Totten
January 8, 2007 at 10:30 AM
This bill could place reporting requirements on churches and other organizations that include outside vendors – like those that might sell books, crafts, or religious items – at the event.
SB 2070 Aging and disability resource center
January 8, 2007 at 11:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 8, 2007 at 1:30 PM
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 9, 2007 at 1:30 PM
SB 2057 Definition of Profession of Teaching - Missouri River Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:15 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 9, 2007 at 9:30 AM
SB 2134 Medicaid Prescription Drug Monitoring Program - Red River Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:30 AM
SB 2030 Educational Joint Powers Agreements - Missouri River Room
January 9, 2007 at 9:00 AM
SB 2130 Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities for Children - Red River Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 8:30 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 10, 2007 at 8:30 AM
SB 2100 Child Abuse Reporting - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 1:00 PM
SB 2041 Marriage License Fee - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM
This bill would provide a discount in the fee for those couples that have received premarital counseling.
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 2:30 PM
SB 2076 Human Rights Violations Investigations - Roosevelt Park Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 3:30 PM
SB 2075 Definition of Discrimination - Roosevelt Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:30 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 10, 2007 at 2:00 PM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 11:00 AM
SB 2103 Forensic Exam Costs for Victims of Sexual Assault - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 10:30 AM
SB 2074 Department of Labor’s Authority in Housing Investigation - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM
HB 1047 Relating to the eligibility requirements for the Children's Health Insurance Program. - Fort Union Room
January 10, 2007 at 10:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Thursday, January 11, 2007
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 10:00 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 11, 2007 at 10:30 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 11, 2007 at 8:30 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 2:00 PM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 11:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 8:30 AM
HB 1023 Indigent Defense Appropriation - Great Plains Room
January 11, 2007 at 2:00 PM
Monday, January 8, 2007
SB 2012 Department of Human Services Appropriation - - Harvest Room
January 8, 2007 at 8:30 AM
This bill, on which the committee will hold hearings throughout the week, funds most of the human service programs that help our poor and most vulnerable. It includes corporate guardianship, medical assistance, economic assistance, long-term care, and more.
HB 1129 Vital Records and Certificates - Fort Union Room
January 8, 2007 at 9:00 AM
This bill addresses birth, fetal death, marriage, and death records.
HB 1040 Disorderly Conduct at Funeral - Prairie Room
January 8, 2007 at 10:00 AM
HB 1074 Special Events and Vendors Fort Totten
January 8, 2007 at 10:30 AM
This bill could place reporting requirements on churches and other organizations that include outside vendors – like those that might sell books, crafts, or religious items – at the event.
SB 2070 Aging and disability resource center
January 8, 2007 at 11:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 8, 2007 at 1:30 PM
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 9, 2007 at 1:30 PM
SB 2057 Definition of Profession of Teaching - Missouri River Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:15 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 9, 2007 at 9:30 AM
SB 2134 Medicaid Prescription Drug Monitoring Program - Red River Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:30 AM
SB 2030 Educational Joint Powers Agreements - Missouri River Room
January 9, 2007 at 9:00 AM
SB 2130 Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities for Children - Red River Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 9, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 8:30 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 10, 2007 at 8:30 AM
SB 2100 Child Abuse Reporting - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 1:00 PM
SB 2041 Marriage License Fee - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM
This bill would provide a discount in the fee for those couples that have received premarital counseling.
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 2:30 PM
SB 2076 Human Rights Violations Investigations - Roosevelt Park Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 3:30 PM
SB 2075 Definition of Discrimination - Roosevelt Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:30 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 10, 2007 at 2:00 PM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 11:00 AM
SB 2103 Forensic Exam Costs for Victims of Sexual Assault - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 10:30 AM
SB 2074 Department of Labor’s Authority in Housing Investigation - Fort Lincoln Room
January 10, 2007 at 9:00 AM
HB 1047 Relating to the eligibility requirements for the Children's Health Insurance Program. - Fort Union Room
January 10, 2007 at 10:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 10, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Thursday, January 11, 2007
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 10:00 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 11, 2007 at 10:30 AM
HB 1015 Department of Corrections Appropriation - Roughrider Room
January 11, 2007 at 8:30 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 2:00 PM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 11:00 AM
SB 2012 DHS Appropriation - Harvest Room
January 11, 2007 at 8:30 AM
HB 1023 Indigent Defense Appropriation - Great Plains Room
January 11, 2007 at 2:00 PM
Legislative Guide and Directory On-Line
01/02/2007 08:26 AM
A Directory of North Dakota
Legislators and Public Officials
is now on-line and
available for download. Also on-line is a
Legislative Action Network
Guide.
The Guide explains how the legislature works, how
you can be involved in the process, how to set-up
a legislative action network, and how to respond
to a legislative alert. Both documents are at
the Legislative
Resources page.
