KFGO file photo
FARGO (KFGO) – North Dakota Democratic-NPL candidates and lawmakers are rallying behind a November ballot initiative to provide free school meals, launching a sharp defense of the program after Gov. Kelly Armstrong announced his opposition.
The initiative, listed on the ballot as Measure 3, would amend the state constitution to provide no-cost breakfast and lunch to all K-12 students in North Dakota. Under the proposal, the program would be paid for using earnings from the state’s multi-billion-dollar Legacy Fund—which is fed by state oil and gas taxes—unless lawmakers identify an alternative funding source.
Armstrong, a Republican, stated this week that he plans to vote against the measure. He called the funding structure “problematic,” arguing that it would improperly mandate constitutional spending.
According to estimates from the State Department of Public Instruction, the universal meal program would cost approximately $133 million in the next state budget cycle. If approved by voters this fall, the program would take effect for the 2027-28 school year.
Democratic-NPL candidates quicky pushed back against the governor, framing the ballot measure as a necessary step after years of legislative inaction. Supporters noted that the “Together for School Meals” coalition gathered nearly 50,000 signatures to bypass the state government and put the issue directly to a public vote.
“Legislators have had five chances to fund school meals through regular legislation,” said Kelly Spilman, a Democratic-NPL Senate candidate from Mandan, noting a recent bill passed the House but died in the Senate by just two votes. “Session after session, it’s stalled. When your elected leaders won’t act, the constitution gives you the right to take it straight to voters.”
Other candidates emphasized the educational and financial benefits for North Dakota families dealing with rising grocery costs. Tracy Layne Foss, a candidate for Superintendent of Public Instruction, argued that proper nutrition is foundational to classroom performance.
“Providing nutritious meals should be viewed as an investment in student success, just like investing in great teachers, quality curriculum, and safe schools,” Foss said.
Some Democrats expressed alarm over Armstrong’s rhetoric regarding the potential passage of the measure. Dr. Chris Tiongson, a Fargo pediatrician and House candidate, criticized the governor for suggesting the Legislature could attempt to override the public’s decision.
“The governor went even farther, stating that if the measure does pass, he wants the legislature to override the will of our voters,” Tiongson said. “Not on my watch. We need to elect legislators who will put kids first and honor the voice of our voters.”
Voters will make the final decision on Measure 3 during the general election on Nov. 3.
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