New North Dakota lawmakers getting used to Capitol, jobs

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The newest group of North Dakota legislators is getting used to their jobs.

The Legislature is holding a three-day organizational session at the Capitol this week. It started Monday and will end Wednesday after Gov. Jack Dalrymple unveils his budget recommendations.

Republican Rep. Rick Becker is a Bismarck plastic surgeon. He says the most important job of the organizational session is to meet new colleagues and "rub elbows a little bit."

One of the Democratic newcomers is Fargo banker George B. Sinner. His parents came to his swearing-in Monday. They are former Gov. George A. Sinner and first lady Jane Sinner.

George Sinner is a former state senator himself, and he says watching his son take office is "pure joy."