News Releases for November 2006
November 15, 2006
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Hoeven: Houdek To Take Position With Board Of Medical Examiners, Bernstein To Serve As Governor's Counsel
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today announced that Duane Houdek, his legal counsel and policy advisor on social services issues, has taken a position as executive secretary of the North Dakota State Board of Medical Examiners, effective Dec. 15. Ryan Bernstein will replace Houdek as the Governor’s legal counsel and advisor, effective Nov. 30.
Houdek assumed the duties of legal counsel in August of 2003. In his new position, he will serve as executive secretary of the N.D. Board of Medical Examiners, which is responsible for licensing physicians and physician assistants, as well as regulating the practice of medicine in the state.
“It has been a privilege to serve Governor Hoeven throughout these past six years,” Houdek said. “He is an exceptional leader, and I’m proud of what we have accomplished as an administration in several areas, especially in making our state safer by strengthening our sexual and violent offender laws and increasing the state’s commitment to the public health of all of its citizens.”
“Duane has been a valued member of our team, contributing his knowledge and skill to helping improve the quality of life for our state,” Hoeven said. “We thank him for his service, and wish him the best in his new endeavor.”
As legal counsel to the Governor, Bernstein will be responsible for preparing and reviewing legislation and legal documents, and providing legal advice for the Governor. He will also manage day to day issues relating to legal processes for the Office of the Governor.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Ryan back to the team,” Hoeven said. “We will value his fresh perspective and his youth.”
Bernstein served as a legislative Policy Assistant for Hoeven in the 2000-2001 legislative session. He currently serves as clerk for Magistrate Judge Charles S. Miller, Jr., prior to which he clerked for Justice Dale Sandstrom of the North Dakota Supreme Court.
A native of Souris, North Dakota, near Bottineau, Bernstein received a Juris Doctor with distinction from the University of North Dakota Law School. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Agriculture Economics from North Dakota State University.
“The upcoming session makes it an exciting time to rejoin the Governor’s Office,” Bernstein said. “I am looking forward to coming back to work with him and his team to help advance the administration’s new initiatives and serve the people of North Dakota.”
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