Good morning, Bismarck.

United Way held its first Annual Luncheon in the basement of the Bismarck Hotel, and now over 500 supporters fill the ballroom.

The funds raised, over $2 million, helped feed 1,000 kids, provided monthly books to 4,000 preschoolers, and housed homeless people — saving lives during extreme cold — as United Way plans to continue funding its 42 programs.

A woman who served time after a fatal 2016 drunken-driving crash south of Bismarck is back in custody as prosecutors seek to revoke her probation.

Bismarck police arrested 25-year-old Diego Fuenmayor-Estrada on March 24 for terrorizing after he stabbed his roommate in a money fight (his bond was set at $50,000 and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 28).

The North Dakota Senate overrode Gov. Kelly Armstrong’s veto on a tax credit for prison industries today—rejecting his worries that the plan might give companies an unfair advantage—and will move the bill forward.

North Dakota lawmakers are reviewing House Bill 1594 that would require hospitals and health care facilities to display service prices using federal formatting so patients know costs upfront.

Supporters argue the bill would prevent surprise bills while opponents claim current federal rules already require price postings and warn providers could face penalties (up to $1,000 per violation each day) and insurers may cancel contracts.

A Senate committee heard differing opinions on HB 1259— a bill that would set standard time all year and end clock changes— as many testified that the change would disrupt work schedules, school bus times, and local business hours.

The 45-minute hearing revealed that the revised bill, which now depends on neighboring states or federal action, did not receive enough support for further steps.

Today the Senate overrode Governor Kelly Armstrong’s veto of a bill that offers tax credits to businesses buying products partly made by inmates—Sen. Jerry Klein said the measure would help inmates learn trades while the House still must reach a two-thirds majority vote to complete the override.

Michael Sloan once planned to overdose on fentanyl (a near-fatal incident) and was jailed, but he began in-patient treatment at Heartview Foundation and joined drug court to turn his life around; he now works at a downtown restaurant and is close to graduating from drug court (engaged to be married) while planning to return to school to become a licensed addiction counselor.

North Dakota EMS Rendezvous Conference and Tradeshow

9:00 AM – 6:45 PM — Bismarck Event Center — Registration fees apply — Explore the latest in emergency services at this engaging tradeshow.

Boxers & Beer Fundraiser

4-10 p.m. — Elks Lodge #1199 — Tickets available — Back and bigger than ever, this fundraising event supports the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.

Dakota Garden Expo

3-8 p.m. — Bismarck Event Center — Check website for entry details — Explore a wide array of exhibitors showcasing garden supplies and resources for all gardening enthusiasts.