ND lawmakers still looking at tax relief plans (Update)

Update:

Republican Gov. Doug Burgum’s push to use some of the state treasury’s surpluses to offset income taxes appears certain to win approval, despite initial opposition from legislative leaders in his own party. Representatives in the GOP-controlled House unanimously approved a bill Thursday that would provide a $350 income tax credit for each North Dakota resident filing a return for 2021 and 2022. During his State of the State address at the special session’s opening Monday, Burgum renewed his call for the legislature to provide income tax relief. Legislative leaders say the idea now appears to be popular.

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Original story:

It appears support may be growing for Governor Burgum’s idea of using money from the state’s general fund ending balance to grant $500 income tax credits to North Dakota taxpayers.

The House and Senate majority leaders say they still would rather wait until the next regular Legislative session, to discuss permanent tax relief.

House Majority Leader Chet Pollert says he supports permanent income tax relief.

Senate Majority Leader Rich Wardner says he hears the most complaints about property taxes. He says the state doesn’t levy property taxes, but he says he has an idea that would lower the tax. “Where I think it should be is dropping the number of mills the school district get from local patrons. Cutting that from 70 mills to 20 mills. That is real property tax relief. Where you get the money is Legacy Fund earnings.”

Besides the income tax credit, lawmakers are considering cutting taxes on Social Security.

NDPPR/KNOX