BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum has made some progress on his campaign pledge to give back his governor’s salary.
Senate budget writers on Monday accepted an amendment by Burgum that would pay him only $1 annually. The full Senate still must approve change.
The House earlier rejected the amendment and representatives would still have to agree to the proposal.
Burgum has said he would forgo his $130,000 annual salary due to tough spending decisions with a downturn in the state’s energy economy. But current rules may force him to take the money, donate it and pay the taxes.
Previous opinions by two North Dakota attorneys general have been critical of officeholders promising to take less money.
Burgum spokesman Mike Nowatzki says the governor will retain his state-paid health insurance.
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