The Legislative Task Force on Government Efficiency convened on July 30, 2025, to discuss the operational strategies and challenges faced by North Dakota's Health and Human Services (HHS) agency. The meeting highlighted the agency's commitment to enhancing service delivery through improved workforce health and efficiency.

Key discussions centered around the agency's structure, which includes state-operated facilities such as the state hospital and the Ruth Myers adolescent facility, as well as individual case management services. The agency emphasized its role in distributing financial resources to citizens, businesses, and local governments, aiming to reduce property tax burdens and improve service delivery.

A significant focus was placed on the agency's initiative to foster a "learning organization" culture among its 2,600 employees and county partners. This initiative, termed "Lead with Light," aims to enhance leadership effectiveness and employee well-being. The program encourages leaders to promote a healthy workplace environment, emphasizing gratitude, purpose, and the importance of mental and physical health.

The meeting also addressed the impact of technology on workforce productivity. Concerns were raised about the distractions posed by smartphones and other devices, with plans to implement training aimed at improving focus and presence among employees. The agency believes that reducing distractions will lead to a more efficient workforce and ultimately better service delivery.

Additionally, the Task Force discussed the agency's partnerships with private service providers, noting that 82% of funding is directed towards these entities. Future discussions will explore how these partnerships can be optimized to enhance service delivery and efficiency.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the HHS agency's commitment to creating a healthier, more efficient workforce as a means to improve services for North Dakota citizens. The Task Force plans to continue evaluating these initiatives and their impact on overall government efficiency.