Burgum advocates for major tax reforms and statewide innovation in final address

DICKINSON — In his last State of the State address, presented live from Dickinson State University, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum presented an ambitious agenda, calling for a more proactive rebranding to elevate North Dakota's national profile.

Burgum's roughly two-hour speech was not only a reflection on his administration's accomplishments, but a roadmap for the state's future on a national scale and included his support for the abolition of state income taxes.

"It is time for us to say goodbye to the state income tax once and for all," he said.

A central theme of Burgum's address was tax reform. He challenged the 69th Legislative Assembly to completely eliminate the state income tax, a step that would align North Dakota with nine other states that already have no income tax.

He noted the state's strong financial position, with over $1.3 billion in reserves — seven times more than when he took office — and argued that such a move would enhance North Dakota's appeal for workforce development and provide significant financial relief to residents.

Josiah C. Cuellar / The Dickinson Press

"The Legislature cannot fix your local problem with a blanket approach, because property taxes are set at the local level," he said. "We can't do a one-size-fits-all [solution]."

Burgum argued that property tax relief should be targeted, saying people who get the burden don't get a say in the decision — calling the shifts "redistribution schemes."

"That's not North Dakota," he said. "Makes no sense."

The move to targeted relief would position North Dakota as the 10th state without an individual income tax, enhancing its appeal for workforce development and providing significant financial relief to residents, he argued.

"We have taken incremental steps for far too long ... so the time is now to tell our citizens, your money belongs in your pockets," he said.

Addressing one of the state's key challenges, Burgum emphasized the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle the housing shortage. With an estimated need for an additional 9,000 housing units by 2025, he highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts and announced plans for developing a comprehensive housing strategy for the 2025 Legislature.

Josiah C. Cuellar / The Dickinson Press

"The next thing we have to work on … is housing," he said, noting plans to keep working to empower residents. "We've got to do more in believing in ourselves. If we believe in ourselves and we learn to tell our story, we will no longer be that blank spot on the map."

The establishment of the Office of Community Development & Rural Prosperity within the Department of Commerce signifies a commitment to sustainable growth and economic diversification, particularly in rural areas.

Burgum also touched on the crucial role of supporting military personnel and law enforcement, expanding workers' compensation, and providing financial incentives for them.

"We cherish our God-given freedoms, and we honor those who risked their lives to protect our safety and preserve our liberty," he said.

He further reflected on the sacrifice of Fargo Police Officer Jake Wallin and Mercer County Sheriff's Deputy Paul Martin , highlighting the dangers faced by law enforcement officers before announcing 2024 as the "Veteran and Military Suicide Prevention and Awareness Year."

In addressing North Dakota's agricultural workforce, Burgum highlighted the crucial role of H2A visa workers, particularly from countries like South Africa, in supporting local farmers and ranchers.

"We would not have gotten the crop off the last few years if it weren't for the H2A workers," he said, acknowledging their significant contributions. He pointed out a 46% increase in these workers over two years, often returning to the same farms.

He said the Office of Legal Immigration aims to streamline visa processes and ensure a steady influx of skilled agricultural workers essential to the state's economy.

The governor announced that the addition to the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library's Morris Archives, an extensive collection from historian Edwin Morris, will be housed at the Theodore Roosevelt Center at Dickinson State University .

Josiah C. Cuellar / The Dickinson Press

The collection, a significant contribution to the study of the 26th president, results from collaboration between DSU and the Presidential Library. Burgum expressed his excitement about this achievement, saying, "It's not going to Harvard. It's not going to Yale. It's coming to DSU."

Dickinson Mayor Scott Decker, speaking with The Dickinson Press, noted the deep appreciation for the strong partnership between Dickinson and the Burgum administration.

"Dickinson appreciates the strong partnership with the Burgum administration and North Dakota, valuing the collaborative efforts for immediate and long-term goals," Decker said. "Hosting the State of the State for the first time highlights Governor Burgum's commitment to recognizing all regions, including the southwestern part, and emphasizes Dickinson's crucial role in the state's prosperity."

Burgum reassured the audience that he would continue to pursue these values in the final days of his term.

"We can empower people, improve lives, inspire success ... where freedom reigns, innovation, not regulation is helping us achieve our fullest potential," he said.

Josiah C. Cuellar / The Dickinson Press