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Wayne Stenehjem on Budget & Economy
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Rainy day funds and budget cuts work
Discussion of the state's $1.074 billion budget shortfall dominated a large portion of the debate. Candidates were asked what they would've done differently if they were governor in 2015 when the state overshot on its budget forecast with oil prices
already beginning to fall. "I don't know that I would have done anything differently," Stenehjem said, adding that the current rainy day funds and processes for cutting budgets has been in place for decades and have worked.
Last month general fund agencies were ordered to cut 4.05% from their budgets; the rest of the cuts came from rainy day funds and state general fund surplus dollars.Becker, touting his staunch fiscal conservative principles, said he'd have submitted
a far smaller budget to begin with. "We wouldn't have found ourselves in the situation we're in now," Becker said, adding that with a smaller budget "I won't have to take out that red pen and line-item veto."
Source: Bismarck Tribune on 2016 North Dakota gubernatorial debate
, Mar 3, 2016
Diversify our economy: drones, fertilizer, & infrastructure
North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem said technology as well as building an attractive business climate are key to the state's long-term prosperity. He said advancements in drones is one area that will lead to permanent jobs as will additional
infrastructure, such as a proposed fertilizer plant near Grand Forks. "We are further diversifying our economy," Stenehjem said. "North Dakota to the amazement of many has become one of the best places for young people."
With a growing economy as well as an increasing and younger population, entrepreneurship can thrive, according to Stenehjem, adding that, with the right tax policy and regulatory regimen, the state can attract new businesses and remain strong for decades
Stenehjem said the state can play a role in promoting a strong business climate through incentives and good loan programs among other things. "We really have made some remarkable progress," Stenehjem said.
Source: Bismarck Tribune on 2016 North Dakota gubernatorial race
, Feb 28, 2016
Page last updated: Jul 29, 2017