The Senate has approved a bill to create a medical facilities loan program through the Bank of North Dakota.
It’s aimed at areas where hospitals and clinics are in need of expansion – and money to make that happen is hard to come by. In particular, western North Dakota hospitals and clinics are looking to expand.
Originally, the bill was a $150-million loan program. The Senate Appropriations Committee cut it to $12 million. But Appropriations Committee members say it's early in the session.
"This won't be the last time we (the Senate) sees this bill," said Sen. Tony Grindberg (R-Fargo).
Sen. Judy Lee (R-West Fargo) is the primary sponsor. She says it's rare that a bill is returned to its original funding level.
"It's a very disappointing response to a very difficult issue out west," said Lee. "I certainly want the bill to pass, so we can continue to discuss it. But this is a hangnail treatment for a major hip replacement issue."
The measure passed 44-2 -- and will now be considered in the House.