By Scout Nelson
U.S. Senator John Hoeven announced progress on federal funding that supports national defense while advancing important priorities for North Dakota. According to Hoeven, the U.S. Senate passed 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2026 through regular order, reducing overall spending compared to last year while strengthening key programs.
The approved legislation includes funding bills for Defense; Labor, Health, and Human Services, and Education; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; Financial Services and General Government; and National Security, State and Related Agencies. These bills were gone to the House of Representatives for consideration.
“We’ve now passed 11 of the 12 appropriations bills through regular order to fund the government while finding savings and supporting our priorities. Importantly, we’ve spent less overall than last year, while providing more funding for defense and accomplishing vital North Dakota priorities. That includes funding for comprehensive flood protection in the Red River Valley and to advance the water supply project for eastern North Dakota passed earlier this month. The legislation passed today continues these efforts and will enhance our national defense and help strengthen our economy and quality of life,” said Hoeven. “Importantly, this legislation builds upon the historic investment we made into nuclear modernization with the One Big Beautiful Bill to keep modernization efforts in Minot on track. We also continue advancing the SDA’s LEO satellite mission in Grand Forks with funding and legislation to support the development of the transport layer. At the same time, these bills maintain support for programs North Dakota has relied upon to make important improvements across our state, from expanding our airports to building the affordable housing our communities need.”
As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to secure funding for defense initiatives that directly impact North Dakota. These include a nearly 4 percent pay raise for service members, investments in nuclear modernization at Minot Air Force Base, support for satellite missions in Grand Forks, and funding for unmanned aerial systems of research, and development across the state.
The legislation also supports housing priorities. It allows flexibility for housing projects in Grand Forks, continues funding for affordable housing programs, and expands support for homeless services, including resources for Native American veterans.
Transportation funding remains a focus as well. The bills support airport improvements, bridge projects, essential air service for rural communities, and veteran flight training programs.
“We’ll continue working to pass the final appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security, which funds FEMA, TSA and other national security needs while also funding equipment like bodycams and measures to improve officer safety and training.”
Overall, the legislation aims to balance fiscal responsibility with strong investment in defense, housing, and transportation to support North Dakota’s economy and communities.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy