Today we joined state leaders on the Capitol grounds to celebrate the official opening of the new North Dakota State Laboratory, a modern facility that strengthens the state’s ability to monitor public health and environmental quality. This ribbon cutting marks more than the completion of a building. It represents a new chapter in how North Dakota protects the health of its people and environment. This new laboratory gives our scientists and staff the modern tools they need to detect threats early, respond quickly and serve communities with greater precision. It’s the kind of long-term investment that strengthens our state for generations to come. Thank you to the leadership and employees of the agencies that will call this building home.