The North Dakota State Legislature took a decisive step in safeguarding the crucial national security interests housed in our region.

Lawmakers approved a total of $850,000 to be allocated toward efforts to retain the dual nuclear missions at Minot Air Force Base.

Task Force 21, the committee of volunteers whose goal is to educate the local community, North Dakota officials, members of Congress, and the public on national security issues pertinent to Minot Air Force Base, will use the funding to advocate for its ongoing air and land missions. Minot Air Force Base is the only dual-mission base in the nation.

"We are deeply grateful to the 68th Legislative Assembly for their recognition of the importance of retaining both of Minot Air Force Base's missions," said Kevin Black, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Minot Area Chamber EDC, which facilitates the activities of Task Force 21. "The U.S. Air Force's work in the Minot area is not only essential to our national security — it is a part of the culture and fabric of Minot. We'll continue working to ensure that work continues uninterrupted."

Senator Randy Burckhard identified the passage of the base retention funding as the most rewarding legislative action he took this session, according to the Minot Daily News.

"With a significant upgrade project planned for Minot's missile system in the coming years, it is crucial that we be proactive, not reactive, in our efforts to support Minot Air Force Base," Sen. Burckhard said, referring to the Sentinel missile modernization project. "I'm proud that we were able to pass this funding."

"Each year, Minot Air Force Base contributes well over half a billion dollars to the local economy," said Brekka Kramer, President | CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC. "This funding from the legislature allows us to work all over the country, including in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the men and women serving our country in Minot, and to preserve their vital mission — and their place in our community — for years to come."