1. What is the estimated minimum income required for a single individual to cover basic expenses in North Dakota?

According to the Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator, the estimated minimum income required for a single individual in North Dakota is $33,354 per year or about $2,779 per month. This includes basic expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities.

2. How does the cost of living in North Dakota impact the minimum income needed for basic needs?

The cost of living in North Dakota can significantly impact the minimum income needed for basic needs. Due to factors such as high housing costs, expensive healthcare, and overall inflation, a higher income is necessary to cover basic expenses such as rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation.

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, the minimum income needed to support a single individual in North Dakota is $11.47 per hour or $23,862 per year. For a family with two adults and two children, the minimum income needed increases to $28.27 per hour or $58,779 per year.

This is significantly higher than the state’s current minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, which falls well below the living wage threshold. As a result, many North Dakotans struggle to meet their basic needs despite working full-time jobs.

Moreover, certain areas within North Dakota may have an even higher cost of living than others. Cities like Fargo and Grand Forks tend to have a higher cost of living due to their rapidly growing economies and limited housing availability.

Overall, the cost of living in North Dakota heavily impacts the minimum income needed for basic needs and makes it difficult for individuals and families earning minimum wage to afford essential expenses.

3. Does the minimum wage in North Dakota align with the cost of living and cover basic needs for workers?

According to a 2021 report by MIT, the living wage in North Dakota is $12.13 per hour for a single adult. This is higher than the current minimum wage of $7.25 per hour in the state.

In terms of covering basic needs, the minimum wage in North Dakota falls short. A worker earning the minimum wage in North Dakota would need to work 66 hours per week to afford a one-bedroom rental at Fair Market Rent, or 82 hours per week for a two-bedroom rental.

Furthermore, according to a cost of living comparison by NerdWallet, North Dakota ranks as the 20th most expensive state to live in out of all 50 states and Washington D.C., suggesting that the minimum wage does not fully align with the cost of living in the state.

Overall, it can be said that while the minimum wage in North Dakota may provide some level of income for workers, it may not cover basic needs and may not fully align with the cost of living in the state.

4. What percentage of North Dakota’s population falls below the income threshold for basic needs?

According to data from the United Way ALICE Report, 32% of North Dakota’s population falls below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold for basic needs. This means they do not earn enough income to afford the basic expenses of housing, childcare, food, healthcare, transportation, and taxes.

5. Is there any government assistance available for individuals or families who do not meet the minimum income for basic needs in North Dakota?

Yes, there are several government assistance programs available for low-income individuals and families in North Dakota. Some examples include:

1) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This program provides financial assistance to families with children under the age of 18 who meet income and asset requirements.

2) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP helps low-income individuals and families purchase groceries.

3) Medicaid: This program provides health insurance to eligible low-income individuals and families.

4) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP assists eligible households with their home heating, cooling, and energy costs.

5) Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): This tax credit is available to low-income working individuals and families to help reduce their federal income taxes owed or potentially provide a refund.

6) Child Care Subsidy: Eligible families can receive financial assistance to help cover the cost of child care while they work or attend school or training programs.

Additionally, there may be local non-profit organizations or charities that offer assistance with basic needs such as food, clothing, housing, and transportation. It is recommended to contact your local Department of Human Services for more information on these programs and resources.

6. What factors contribute to the varying minimum income for basic needs across different regions within North Dakota?

1. Cost of living: The cost of living varies across different regions in North Dakota, with some areas being more expensive than others. This can significantly impact the minimum income needed to cover basic needs.

2. Housing costs: Rent and housing costs vary greatly across different regions in North Dakota. Areas with higher housing costs will require a higher minimum income to cover basic needs such as shelter.

3. Job opportunities: Some regions may have more job opportunities and higher paying jobs, which can result in a higher minimum income needed to cover basic needs.

4. Demographics: The population and demographics of a region can affect the cost of goods and services, which can impact the minimum income needed for basic needs.

5. Accessibility to resources: Some areas may have better access to affordable healthcare, education, and other essential resources, reducing the overall cost of living and resulting in a lower required minimum income for basic needs.

6. Economic factors: Economic factors such as inflation rates, unemployment rates, and economic growth can also impact the cost of living and minimum income needed for basic needs within a region.

7. Are there any efforts being made at the state level to address issues of poverty and inadequate income for basic needs in North Dakota?

Yes, there are various efforts being made at the state level to address issues of poverty and inadequate income for basic needs in North Dakota. These include:

1. Minimum Wage Increase: In 2020, the North Dakota minimum wage increased from $7.25 per hour to $7.50 per hour, with future increases tied to inflation.

2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program: The TANF program provides financial assistance and employment services to low-income families with children.

3. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, SNAP provides low-income individuals and families with electronic benefits that can be used to purchase food.

4. Affordable Housing Programs: The North Dakota Housing Finance Agency offers a variety of programs aimed at increasing affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families.

5. Childcare Assistance Program: This program provides financial assistance to eligible families for childcare costs, allowing parents to work or attend school while their children are in care.

6. Heating Assistance Programs: Low-income households can receive assistance with heating costs through programs such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

7. Job Training and Workforce Development Programs: Various training and education programs are available to help individuals gain skills and find employment opportunities that pay a livable wage.

These are just some examples of the efforts being made at the state level in North Dakota to address issues of poverty and inadequate income for basic needs. Other initiatives may also be in place at the local or community level.

8. How has the minimum income for basic needs changed over time in North Dakota?

The minimum income for basic needs in North Dakota has increased over time. In 2008, the estimated minimum annual income for a single adult in North Dakota was $19,657. In 2018, the estimated minimum annual income for a single adult was $25,684, an increase of approximately 30%. Similarly, the estimated minimum annual income for a family of four (two adults and two children) in North Dakota increased from $45,851 in 2008 to $60,241 in 2018.
This represents an increase of approximately 31% over the last decade. These figures are based on calculations by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI) using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Expenditure Survey. The rising cost of housing, healthcare, and education contribute to the growing minimum income needed to cover basic needs in North Dakota over time.

9. Is universal basic income being considered as a potential solution to address inadequate income in North Dakota?

There has been some discussion and consideration of universal basic income (UBI) as a potential solution to address inadequate income in North Dakota.

In 2019, a group called the North Dakota Chapter of the Basic Income Earth Network (BIEN) was formed with the goal of promoting the idea of implementing a universal basic income program in the state. They believe that UBI could improve the overall well-being of North Dakotans by providing financial security and stability.

In addition, a pilot study on basic income was conducted in Grand Forks from 2005 to 2009. The study, also known as the “Family Self-Sufficiency Plan,” provided participants with a guaranteed monthly payment and found that it had positive effects on their education, employment, and overall well-being.

However, while there is some interest and discussion around UBI in North Dakota, there have been no concrete plans or actions taken towards implementing such a program in the state. Ultimately, any decision to implement UBI would require significant research, planning, and resources.

10. Are there programs or initiatives specifically targeting low-income households in need of financial support for basic needs in North Dakota?

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives in North Dakota that target low-income households in need of financial support for basic needs. These include:

1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): This program provides food assistance to low-income households through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards that can be used at participating grocery stores.

2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF is a cash assistance program for families with children who meet income requirements and have limited assets.

3. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP provides financial assistance to help eligible households pay their energy bills during the winter months.

4. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): WIC provides nutrition education, counseling, and supplemental nutritious foods to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and children under five years of age who meet income guidelines.

5. Medicaid: This program provides health insurance coverage to low-income individuals and families who meet certain eligibility requirements.

6. Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program: This program provides low-income seniors with checks to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets.

7. School Breakfast and Lunch Programs: These programs provide free or reduced-price meals for students from low-income families in schools.

8. Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): TEFAP works with food banks, pantries and other emergency feeding organizations to supplement the diets of low-income Americans including elderly people by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost.

9. The Special Milk Program: This program provides milk to school children in participating schools or child care institutions who do not participate in federal meal programs but do not have enough money to buy milk at the current price.

10. Child Care Financial Assistance/Child Care Subsidy: This program helps eligible parents pay for child care so they can work or attend school while caring for their children.

11. How do different demographic groups, such as seniors or single parents, fare when it comes to meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs in North Dakota?

It is difficult to provide a definitive answer to this question without access to specific data and statistics on income and basic needs in North Dakota. However, generally speaking, seniors and single parents may face unique challenges in meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs due to a variety of factors such as age, family structure, and socioeconomic status.

Seniors may face financial obstacles due to retirement or limited employment opportunities, which can result in lower incomes and difficulty meeting basic needs. For example, the cost of healthcare and prescription medication can be particularly burdensome for seniors on fixed incomes.

Single parents also often face financial challenges due to the responsibility of raising children on their own with limited support. This can make it difficult for them to secure well-paying jobs or advance in their careers, thus making it challenging to meet their minimum income requirements for basic needs.

In addition, demographic groups such as people of color and those living in rural areas may also face difficulties meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs in North Dakota. These populations may have limited access to education and employment opportunities, which can impact their earning potential.

Overall, it is important for policymakers and community leaders to address these disparities and work towards creating more equitable systems that support all members of society in meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs.

12. What measures can be taken to bridge the gap between the current minimum income and what is needed to cover basic expenses in North Dakota?

1. Increase the minimum wage: One of the most direct ways to bridge the gap is to increase the minimum wage. This would provide an immediate increase in income for those earning at or near the minimum wage and help them cover their basic expenses.

2. Provide tax relief: Governments can offer tax credits or deductions to low-income workers to help offset their basic expenses and ease their financial burden.

3. Invest in affordable housing: The high cost of housing is a major factor contributing to the basic expense gap in North Dakota. Investing in more affordable housing options, such as low-income housing developments or rent subsidies, would help to reduce this burden on low-income individuals and families.

4. Implement healthcare programs: Health care costs can be a significant financial burden, especially for those with lower incomes. Implementing healthcare programs, such as Medicaid expansion or subsidies for health insurance premiums, could help alleviate some of these costs and free up income for other basic expenses.

5. Provide education and training opportunities: Higher education and specialized training can lead to higher-paying jobs and increased earning potential. By offering educational programs and training opportunities to low-income individuals, they can acquire skills that will allow them to earn more and better cover their basic expenses.

6. Increase access to childcare services: Childcare costs are often a major expense for working parents. Expanding access to affordable childcare options would not only make it easier for parents to enter or stay in the workforce but also free up some of their income that would otherwise go towards childcare expenses.

7. Enforce labor laws: Ensuring that employers are following labor laws, such as paying overtime wages and providing fair working conditions, can prevent wage theft and exploitation of low-wage workers.

8. Address food insecurity: Food insecurity is a common challenge faced by low-income families in North Dakota. Implementing programs like food assistance programs or supporting local food banks can provide relief from this expense for struggling families.

9. Encourage job growth and economic development: Creating new jobs in different industries and promoting economic development can provide more employment opportunities and higher wages for individuals in North Dakota.

10. Provide financial education and counseling: Many low-income individuals may not have the knowledge or resources to effectively manage their finances. Providing financial education and counseling services can help them better budget, save, and manage their income to cover basic expenses.

11. Foster community support networks: Community organizations, non-profits, and churches can provide essential support to low-income families by offering services like job training, emergency assistance, and other resources.

12. Engage in dialogue with policymakers: Communicating the challenges faced by low-income individuals to policymakers can help bring attention to these issues and potentially lead to policy changes that would benefit this demographic.

13. Has there been any research done on how an increase in minimum income can positively impact overall economic growth and well-being of residents in North Dakota?

Yes, there has been some research on the potential impacts of increasing the minimum income on economic growth and well-being in North Dakota. However, because North Dakota does not currently have a state-specific minimum wage (the state follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25), much of this research focuses on the impacts of raising the federal minimum wage rather than a specific increase in North Dakota.

Some studies have found that increasing the minimum wage can lead to positive effects on local economies, such as increased consumer spending and job growth. For example, a 2019 report from the Economic Policy Institute estimates that raising the federal minimum wage to $15 by 2024 would potentially increase economic activity by over $107 billion nationwide and create an estimated 1.3 million new jobs.

Other research has looked specifically at how increasing the minimum wage could impact low-income communities in North Dakota. A 2015 report from Oxfam America examines how raising wages for food service workers could improve both their individual well-being and overall community health and stability.

However, some studies also suggest potential negative impacts of increasing the minimum wage, including potential job losses or reduced business profitability. It’s important to note that there is still ongoing debate and conflicting evidence about these potential effects.

Overall, while there is some evidence that increasing the minimum income could have positive impacts on economic growth and well-being in North Dakota, more research is needed to fully understand its potential effects in this particular context.

14. Are there any industries or occupations that are more likely to have workers earning below the minimum income required for basic needs in North Dakota?

Some industries or occupations that may be more likely to have workers earning below the minimum income required for basic needs in North Dakota include:
– Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations: Many of these jobs are seasonal or rely on unpredictable weather conditions, making it difficult for workers to consistently earn enough to cover basic expenses.
– Food preparation and serving occupations: Jobs in restaurants, fast food chains, and other food establishments often pay low wages with limited opportunities for advancement.
– Personal care and service occupations: Workers in these roles, such as home health aides or personal care assistants, may earn low salaries despite providing essential services.
– Retail sales: Sales associates and cashiers often earn minimum wage or slightly above it, which may not be enough to cover basic needs in some areas of North Dakota.
– Temporary or part-time work: Many seasonal jobs in the tourism industry or other sectors of the economy may not provide full-time hours or year-round work, leading to lower incomes for workers.

15. How accessible are affordable housing options for those with low incomes struggling to meet their basic needs in North Dakota?

Affordable housing options for those with low incomes in North Dakota can vary depending on the location. In some areas, there may be a shortage of affordable housing, leading to long waitlists and limited availability. However, there are also local and state resources that provide assistance to individuals struggling with housing costs.

One resource is the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, which provides tax incentives for developers to build affordable rental properties. The program is administered by the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) and has helped fund over 2,000 affordable units in the state.

In addition, there are multiple federal programs aimed at providing affordable housing for low-income individuals, such as Section 8 vouchers and public housing programs. These programs are also administered by NDHFA.

However, due to limited funding and high demand, these programs often have long waitlists. In 2019, it was reported that there were over 2,300 families on waitlists for Section 8 vouchers in North Dakota.

Another factor that can impact accessibility of affordable housing for those with low incomes is the cost of living in certain areas of the state. According to a report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, a minimum wage worker in North Dakota would need to work 72 hours per week to afford a modest one-bedroom apartment at fair market rent.

Overall, while there are resources and programs available to assist those with low incomes in accessing affordable housing in North Dakota, there can still be challenges due to high demand and limited availability.

16. Can education or job training programs play a role in increasing the minimum income for basic needs in North Dakota?

Yes, education and job training programs can play a role in increasing the minimum income for basic needs in North Dakota. By providing individuals with skills and qualifications that are in demand in the job market, these programs can help them secure higher paying jobs and increase their income. This can also lead to economic growth in the state, which can create more job opportunities and further increase wages. Additionally, investing in education and job training programs can help close the wage gap by providing marginalized communities with access to resources and opportunities for upward mobility. Overall, promoting education and job training initiatives can contribute to improving the financial stability of individuals and families in North Dakota.

17. How do neighboring states compare to North Dakota when it comes to the minimum income needed for basic needs?

According to data from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Living Wage Calculator, North Dakota has a slightly lower minimum income needed for basic needs compared to its neighboring states in the Midwestern region. For example, as of 2021, the living wage for a single adult in North Dakota is estimated at $12.93 per hour, while neighboring states like Minnesota and South Dakota have living wages of $14.72 and $13.42 respectively.

However, when comparing North Dakota to other regions across the United States, the state’s minimum income needed for basic needs is generally on par with or slightly higher than other states in the country. For example, North Dakota’s living wage for a single adult is higher than that of Southern states like Mississippi and Alabama, but lower than Western states like California and Washington.

Overall, it is important to note that the cost of living and minimum income needed for basic needs can vary greatly within each state and even within different regions of a state. The MIT Living Wage Calculator provides estimates based on county-level data, so there may be variations within a state that are not reflected in these overall comparisons.

18. Are there any non-profit organizations or charities providing assistance for individuals or families who cannot meet their basic needs due to inadequate income in North Dakota?

Yes, some non-profit organizations and charities in North Dakota that may provide assistance for individuals and families in need due to inadequate income include:

1. North Dakota Community Action Partnership: This organization works to alleviate poverty and promote self-sufficiency by providing services such as food assistance, housing support, and job training.

2. Great Plains Food Bank: This organization collects donations of food and distributes it to those in need through a network of partner agencies.

3. Salvation Army North Dakota: The Salvation Army provides emergency financial assistance, including help with rent, utilities, and transportation expenses.

4. Community Action Agencies: There are several community action agencies across the state that offer a variety of programs and services to assist low-income individuals and families.

5. North Dakota Women’s Network: This organization focuses on improving the economic status of women in North Dakota through education, advocacy, and direct service programs.

6. Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota: LSSND offers a range of programs for low-income individuals and families, including counseling services, refugee resettlement, food pantries, and affordable housing options.

7. The Village Family Service Center: This nonprofit provides counseling services, affordable housing options, financial management assistance, and other supportive services to individuals and families in need.

8. American Red Cross – Dakotas Region: In addition to disaster relief efforts, the Red Cross also offers emergency financial assistance for basic needs like food, shelter, clothing, and medical supplies.

9. United Way – Northern Plains Emergency Assistance Center: United Way operates an emergency assistance center that provides short-term crisis intervention for individuals facing homelessness or other urgent needs.

10. North Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS): DHS administers various public assistance programs in the state such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), energy assistance, Medicaid, childcare subsidies, etc., which can help individuals meet their basic needs.

19. Has North Dakota implemented any policies or initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and helping residents achieve a minimum income for basic needs?

Yes, North Dakota has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and helping residents achieve a minimum income for basic needs:

1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This is a federal program administered by the state that provides financial assistance and employment support to low-income families with children.

2. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): This program, also known as food stamps, helps low-income individuals and families afford food through monthly benefits that can be used to purchase groceries.

3. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program assists low-income families with their heating and cooling costs during extreme weather conditions.

4. Medicaid Expansion: In 2013, North Dakota expanded its Medicaid program to provide health insurance coverage to more low-income adults, helping them access necessary medical care without incurring high out-of-pocket costs.

5. State Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): North Dakota offers a state EITC to supplement the federal credit for low-income working individuals and families.

6. Emergency Rent Bridge Program: This program provides temporary rental assistance to individuals and families experiencing a crisis, such as loss of income or unexpected expenses.

7. Workforce Development Programs: The state offers programs such as Job Service North Dakota and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) which provide job training, education, and career development services to help individuals find employment opportunities that pay above minimum wage.

8. Housing Assistance Programs: The North Dakota Housing Finance Agency offers programs such as Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program and Low Income Public Housing Program to assist low-income households with affordable housing options.

9. Community Action Agencies (CAAs): These agencies provide a range of services including emergency financial assistance, housing assistance, food shelves, and other support services for individuals and families in need.

10. Minimum Wage Increase: In 2019, North Dakota increased its minimum wage to $7.25 per hour, providing a higher income for low-wage workers.

Overall, these policies and initiatives aim to alleviate poverty and help individuals and families meet their basic needs for food, housing, healthcare, and employment.

20. What can be done at the state level to ensure that all residents have access to a livable income that covers their basic needs in North Dakota?

1. Increase the minimum wage: One of the most direct ways to ensure a livable income for all residents is to increase the minimum wage. This can be done through legislation or ballot measures, and would benefit low-income workers in both urban and rural areas.

2. Implement a state-wide living wage: Instead of being tied to the federal minimum wage, North Dakota could implement a living wage that takes into account the cost of living in different regions of the state. This approach would ensure that workers are able to meet their basic needs regardless of where they live in North Dakota.

3. Expand Medicaid: Expanding Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act would provide low-income residents with access to healthcare at a reduced cost, which can alleviate financial burdens and leave more resources for other basic needs.

4. Invest in affordable housing: The availability of affordable housing is crucial for low-income individuals and families to have a stable and livable income. The state could invest in building new affordable housing units or providing subsidies for rent payments.

5. Support small businesses: Small businesses play an important role in creating jobs and boosting economic growth. By providing resources and support to small businesses, the state can help create more job opportunities with fair wages for North Dakota residents.

6. Encourage workforce development programs: Workforce development programs can provide training and education opportunities for individuals to acquire new skills and qualifications, enabling them to secure better-paying jobs.

7. Offer tax incentives for companies that pay fair wages: The state could offer tax incentives or subsidies to companies that pay their employees a livable wage, encouraging them to prioritize fair compensation for their employees.

8. Protect workers’ rights: Strong labor laws that protect workers’ rights are essential in ensuring fair wages and benefits for employees across industries.

9. Strengthen unemployment benefits: In times of economic downturn or when individuals face job loss, unemployment benefits provide temporary support until they find new employment. Strengthening these benefits can help ensure a basic standard of living for residents during difficult times.

10. Create a state-based Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): A state-level EITC can help supplement the incomes of low-wage workers and lift them out of poverty.

11. Provide affordable childcare options: The high cost of childcare can be a barrier for families with young children, making it challenging for parents to enter the workforce or seek higher-paying jobs. Implementing affordable childcare options can alleviate this financial burden and increase household income.

12. Expand access to transportation: Reliable and affordable transportation is essential for individuals to access job opportunities and educational resources. Investing in public transportation or programs that provide discounted transit passes can help low-income residents save money on transportation costs.

13. Increase funding for food assistance programs: Access to adequate nutrition is critical for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which is essential for maintaining employment and education. Increasing funding for food assistance programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), can ensure that all residents have access to nutritious meals.

14. Provide financial literacy education: Financial literacy education programs can equip individuals with the skills to manage their finances effectively, leading to better budgeting and increased financial stability.

15. Address systemic inequalities: Systemic inequalities, such as discrimination based on race or gender, contribute to economic disparities in communities. Addressing these issues at the state level through policies aimed at promoting equity and inclusion can help create more equal economic opportunities for all residents.

16. Target investment in rural communities: Rural areas in North Dakota often face unique economic challenges such as lack of job opportunities and aging populations. Targeted investments in rural communities can help address these issues and create a more balanced distribution of resources across the state.

17. Collaborate with nonprofits and community organizations: Nonprofit organizations and community groups often play a vital role in providing support services for individuals facing economic hardship. Working together with these organizations can help ensure that resources are distributed effectively and reach those in need.

18. Create a state-level poverty reduction plan: A comprehensive, state-level poverty reduction plan can identify the root causes of poverty and outline specific policies and strategies for addressing them. This can serve as a roadmap for tackling economic inequality and ensuring that all residents have access to a livable income.

19. Foster a diverse and inclusive economy: Diversifying the economy by supporting different industries and promoting diversity in the workforce can create more job opportunities with fair wages for all residents.

20. Invest in sustainable economic development: Investing in sustainable economic development can create long-term growth and promote stable employment opportunities for North Dakota residents, ultimately contributing to a more livable income for all.