State senate votes to override Gov. Armstrong's veto of Roughrider Industries bill
Mar 27, 2025
BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — After governor Kelly Armstrong shot down a bill in the legislature, state senators needed 32 votes to override the veto on Thursday.
And 45 state senators voted 'yes' to Senate Bill 2261, which would offer a tax credit of up to $45,000 for companies who do business with r
oughrider industries. That's a program operated by the state prisons, allowing inmates to gain experience in trade skills and building products.
Governor Armstrong vetoed the idea last week, arguing it creates an unfair advantage in the marketplace.
German ambassador gives address to North Dakota legislature
"Not only will that keep the folks at Rough Rider busy, but once again, it's training, giving those inmates valuable experience," Sen. Jerry Klein (R-Fessenden) said.
"We're talking about building a $600 million facility in the next biennium. We are now working on a $200 million facility. It is taking over," Sen. Tim Mathern (D-Fargo) said. "And we heard that the best way to stop that is to train people in the prison,"
With the veto override, Senate Bill 2261 now heads back to the House for a floor vote. It needs at least a two-thirds majority there to become law.
Close
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
Today's Top Stories
SIGN UP NOW
...read more read less