Good morning, Bismarck.

Rural fire officials warned that unsafe burn pits have caused more wildfires in Morton County and urged residents to use water to fully extinguish fires, as embers can stay hot for months — large grass fires can start unexpectedly.

Chief Lynn Gustin noted that a total burn ban is in effect and will be re-evaluated by the end of May.

A six-member legislative committee will meet next week to work on House Bill 1176, focusing on property tax relief—lawmakers plan to address issues like primary residence tax credits and limits on homeowner relief while keeping a 3% cap on local government tax hikes.

On Thursday, the North Dakota Senate passed House Bill 1540 for school choice by a 27 to 20 vote at the State Capitol.

The Senate changed the bill to give funds based on income (35% for families up to 200% of the poverty line, 20% for those from 200% to 400%, and 10% for families above that) and sent it back to the House for another vote.

On Friday, state senators approved the ag department budget that set aside $500,000 for a 'see and spray' system which uses AI to target Palmer Amaranth—an invasive weed that threatens crop profits.

Senator Terry Wanzek said the technology is designed to curb economic losses in agriculture.

A House bill would provide the state with millions of dollars in low-interest loans to renovate long-term care buildings that are decades old—Missouri Slope Hillview campus in Bismarck and other facilities in Williston, Strasburg and Velva are part of the plan.

Officials said five projects may begin in the next few years if the bill passes.

A North Dakota Legislative Council report shows that 85 of 141 lawmakers have missed days this session and cost taxpayers $41,535 in per-diem payments as of April 17.

Among the most absent, Rep. Lori VanWinkle and Rep. Landon Bahl missed several days—VanWinkle took a family trip while Bahl was away for work duty—with their absences sparking questions about the Legislature's pay policies.

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.

DIY Time Crunch Mini Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio — Check for registration fees — Create a personalized sign with step-by-step guidance while enjoying the creative atmosphere.

Sisterhood Saturday

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Historic Downtown Bismarck — $30 for bouquet making — Celebrate community and creativity by crafting a beautiful bouquet with flowers from various locations.

AARP Smart Driver Course

10-11 a.m. — Burleigh County Senior Adults — $20 for members, $25 for non-members — Learn defensive driving skills and possibly save on car insurance.