Julie’s Journal: Week in Review

February 7, 2025 Press Release Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) met with North Dakotans and leaders from a wide range of industries in Washington D.C. this week. These meetings are where we tackle the issues that matter most to North Dakota—energy, agriculture, education, and health care—and turn ideas into action. Check out these meeting highlights: At her meeting with Dr. Scott Snyder, University of North Dakota’s (UND) Vice President for Research and Economic Development , Rep. Fedorchak learned more about UND’s research priorities at the federal level and ongoing projects in energy, autonomous systems, aviation, and defense technologies. Image Northern Plains National Park Heritage Area discussed the importance of preserving North Dakota’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage. Image Rep. Fedorchak applauded the athletes, volunteers, and organizers of the North Dakota Special Olympics for their commitment to fostering inclusivity and celebrating individuals with intellectual disabilities. Toby, an athlete from Grand Forks, shared his love of bowling. Image The North Dakota Rural Water System Managers and Board Members underscored the importance of continued funding to rural water systems in the state. Image In her meeting with the North Dakota Department of Transportation , Rep. Fedorchak underscored the vital cooperation between federal, state, and local partners needed to address our nation’s massive infrastructure needs. Image Chief Agent Ben Leingang of the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation updated Rep. Fedorchak on the fentanyl crisis in North Dakota and the state’s efforts to deport illegal immigrants. He shared that record amounts of fentanyl are pouring into this state, which Fedorchak highlighted on the House Floor while speaking in support of H.R. 27, the HALT Fentanyl Act . Image North Dakota Barley Council discussed trade and tariffs, crop insurance, and Farm Bill implementation and left our office with a “No Barley No Beer” sticker! Image A highlight of the week was Julie’s visits with students. In addition to Special Olympian Toby, she met with students from Bismarck High School and discussed efforts to prevent drug and alcohol use in minors. They also talked about the harm vaping does to young students, particularly at the high school level. Image Students enrolled in North Dakota’s Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) shared their personal education journeys and the important role TCUs have played. So many inspiring stories! Thank you for coming to Washington to meet with us. Image Rep. Fedorchak met with Mr. Dan Williams, the Alberta Minister of Mental Health and Addiction , to talk about interests shared by North Dakota and the province, particularly as it relates to trade. They also briefly spoke about hockey and the University of North Dakota players who have played for Edmonton and Calgary. Image In her meeting with the Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas (CHAD) , she discussed ways to incentivize efficiency in rural health care, including innovative models to provide behavioral health care services. Many North Dakota Community health care facilities are leading the way in solving these tough health care challenges and ultimately improving lives in North Dakota communities. Image ### Issues : Congress Budget and Economy Education Energy and Environment Health