This bill proposes an appropriation for the judicial branch of North Dakota, covering the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. It includes significant funding adjustments for the Supreme Court, district courts, the Judicial Conduct Commission, and the Office of Guardianship and Conservatorship. Notably, the bill introduces a "Base Level Enhancements Appropriation" for various line items, which includes increases in salaries and wages, operating expenses, and capital assets. The total general fund appropriation is set at approximately $150.3 million, with specific allocations for new positions and technology upgrades, including a report requirement for the use of one-time funding items.

Additionally, the bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code to adjust the salaries of justices of the Supreme Court and district judges. The annual salary for Supreme Court justices will increase to $202,335, while district judges will see their salaries rise to $183,091. The amendments also adjust additional compensation for the chief justice and presiding judges. Furthermore, the bill allows for flexibility in transferring appropriation authority between line items as needed to ensure the effective functioning of the judicial branch.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senate Appropriations - Education and Environment Division Committee: 27-02-02, 27-05-03
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 27-02-02, 27-05-03
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations Committee: 27-02-02, 27-05-03
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations - Education and Environment Division Committee: 27-02-02, 27-05-03