Good morning, Grand Forks.

The crew of a Sikorsky UH-60 spotted a green laser near Hector International Airport at 9 p.m. on April 17—FAA and local authorities are investigating the incident with no injuries reported.

The North Dakota Senate passed a bill to create education savings accounts for private school students—accounts that offer vouchers for tuition and eligible costs, available only for private schools and set for the 2026-27 school year while a conference committee finalizes details based on household income.

Gov. Kelly Armstrong signed Senate Bill 2214 into law that merged the securities department into the insurance department — the new structure will allow one insurance commissioner to improve financial crime investigations, simplify licensing, and enhance consumer protections, as stated by Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread.

A committee of six lawmakers will meet next week to work on the final text of a property tax relief bill.

They will discuss issues such as the primary residence tax credit and whether there should be a cap on homeowner relief—officials expect to reach an agreement after careful negotiation.

The North Dakota Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that may decide if a law forcing landowners to allow underground carbon dioxide storage if 60% agree is constitutional.

The Northwest Landowners Association and North Dakota Farm Bureau led a lawsuit against the state and the Industrial Commission—while Minnkota Power, Basin Electric, Dakota Gasification Co. and Summit Carbon Solutions defended the statute.

Driving Range Opening Day

10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. — Outdoor Recreation — Memberships start at $50 — Kick off the season with trap, skeet, and archery activities at Grand Forks AFB.

An Evening with 3 Farm Daughters

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Prohibition Comedy & Event Room — Free for members, $25 for non-members — Explore the inspiring journey of three sisters turning their family farm passion into a thriving business.