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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The state Senate has passed a bill to take care of a projected 0 million budget shortfall.

The vote was unanimous – 46 to zero.

The bill dips into the state’s “rainy day” fund, and potentially into the Bank of North Dakota’s profits, to restore some budget cuts to the Departments of Human Services and Corrections. But it leaves in place both the earlier 4 percent allotment, and the recent 2 ½ percent cut.

The Senate debated nearly two hours, as Democrats offered amendments to restore other budget cuts. All were rejected.

Senate Minority Leader Mac Schneider of Grand Forks says he was voting for the final bill – with a “heavy heart.”

Lawmakers will convene for their regular session in January. And Senate Majority Leader Rich Wardner of Dickinson says that’s only five months away – and lawmakers can then take another look at the budget reductions.

The House Appropriations Committee will take up the bill this afternoon.