Legislative council plans expansion with new policy analysts and IT positions

In a bustling meeting room filled with the hum of legislative discussions, North Dakota's government leaders gathered on June 25, 2025, to address critical staffing and space needs as they prepare for the upcoming legislative session. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as officials outlined plans for a significant expansion of the Legislative Council's staff, aiming to enhance program evaluation and policy analysis capabilities.

At the forefront of the discussions was the introduction of new policy analyst positions, a move inspired by successful models in other states. Currently, the council employs one analyst with a background in program evaluation, but plans are underway to recruit additional analysts, particularly targeting recent graduates. This initiative is expected to bolster the council's ability to conduct thorough studies on pressing issues, including childcare, which has been a topic of concern among legislators.

As the council gears up for this expansion, they are also mindful of the challenges that come with it. The hiring process is set to begin soon, with advertisements for positions being posted across various platforms. However, officials acknowledged potential salary constraints that may limit their ability to attract experienced candidates from the executive branch.

In addition to policy analysts, the council plans to hire an attorney to assist with interim study committees, as well as IT specialists to improve the efficiency of their operations. The need for administrative support was also highlighted, with plans to add staff to manage the increasing volume of documents and reports generated by the council's activities.

Yet, as the council looks to expand its workforce, it faces a pressing issue: space. With every office currently occupied, the council is at capacity. Discussions revealed that while there were plans to utilize the Fifteenth Floor for additional office space, the governor's veto of a provision in the appropriation bill has left the council in a state of uncertainty regarding its future workspace. The existing facilities are described as cramped and outdated, prompting concerns about the ability to foster a collaborative and efficient work environment.

Despite these challenges, the council remains committed to moving forward with its hiring plans. Officials expressed optimism about finding creative solutions to accommodate new staff, even as they navigate the complexities of space allocation and renovations. The meeting concluded with a sense of determination, as leaders recognized the importance of building a robust legislative team to address the needs of North Dakota's citizens effectively.

As the council prepares for the upcoming legislative session, the focus on staffing and space will be crucial in shaping the future of governance in North Dakota. The decisions made in this interim period will undoubtedly have lasting implications for the state's legislative capabilities and responsiveness to the challenges ahead.