To address the continuing threat of terrorism and to work with the federal Department of Homeland Security (created in 2002 following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001), homeland security in North Dakota in 2003 operated under the authority of the governor; the emergency management director was designated as the state homeland security advisor.
Educational services are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Instruction and the Board of Higher Education; there are state schools for the deaf, blind, handicapped, and mentally retarded. Health and welfare agencies include the State Health Department, Department of Agriculture, Department of Economic Development and Finance, Council on the Arts, Veterans Affairs Department, Social Service Board, and Indian Affairs Commission. Agricultural services include an extensive program of experiment and extension stations. The state bank, mill, and grain elevator established under Nonpartisan League influence remain to this day.