Issue Position: Quality of Life
Issue Position
Issue Position: Quality of Life
Quality of Life is our sixth and last pillar. North Dakotans enjoys safe communities, a clean and healthy environment, exceptional schools for our children and access to the outdoors for numerous recreational activities. With these and a healthy economy, we can ensure that this way of life will always be second to none.
All of Hoeven's pillarseconomic development, education, agriculture, energy and technology contribute to North Dakota's quality of life. North Dakotans enjoy safe communities, a clean and healthy environment, exceptional schools and access to the outdoors for numerous recreational activities. With these and a healthy economy, we can ensure that our quality of life will always be second to none.
Cutting Taxes
Hoeven and the legislature enacted more than $129 million in tax relief - cutting property taxes for homeowners, businesses, farmers, ranchers, and seniors, as well as eliminating the marriage penalty for middle-income couples.
Taking Care Our People
Last session, Hoeven and lawmakers dedicated an additional $100 million to help meet the challenges of covering healthcare costs and other services for our seniors and those in need.
Supporting our Soldiers
North Dakota has enhanced the veterans' bonus program, provided more scholarship assistance, and increased counseling services for soldiers and their families.
The state also dedicated $9 million to build a new Veterans' Home in Lisbon.
Hoeven and the North Dakota Legislature also passed a law providing a buffer zone that protects families of our fallen military heroes from protesters at their funerals and memorial ceremonies
Maintaining a Safe and Healthy Environment
North Dakota consistently ranks at the top of the list for safety and health. Last year, North Dakota was eighth on the list of the healthiest states and has maintained the top ranking as the safest state for eight of the last twelve years.
We passed tough laws to deal with sexual offenders including Jessica's Law, which will help keep our state and communities safe. The law includes mandatory minimum sentences, up to lifetime supervision, and electronic monitoring for violent and sexual offenders.
Keeping Access to the Outdoors Open
Hoeven set a goal for Game and Fish Department to secure more than 1 million acres of private land for free hunting access through the Private Land Open to Sportsmen (PLOTS) Program.
Funding for the construction of the Fort Stevenson Marina will allow more boat access to Lake Sakakawea for North Dakota anglers and recreationists, especially during times of low water.
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