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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) Supporters of a North Dakota constitutional amendment to restrict the growth of government spending say they're dropping their petition drive.

Ron Almquist of Minot is chairman of an initiative committee that proposed the measure almost a year ago. The petitions have to be turned in by Jan. 22, and the measure is short of the 25,688 signatures it needs to go on the statewide ballot.

The amendment sought to limit annual spending increases by North Dakota's state and local governments to no more than a federal consumer price index. Sixty percent voter approval would be needed to exceed the spending cap.

Almquist says the defeat of two budget measures last November contributed to his group's decision to stop the campaign.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-11-08 2107CST | save this article / add to your favorites list