The bill amends and reenacts sections 49-17.1-02, 49-17.1-03, and 49-17.1-04 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on rail service assistance. It designates the Department of Transportation as the state agency responsible for qualifying for rail service assistance grants under the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976. The Department is empowered to prepare a state plan for rail transportation, administer it, ensure equitable distribution of grants, promote safe rail services, and maintain necessary programs for public participation and fiscal control.

Key changes include the removal of the requirement for the Department to seek the commission's approval when applying for grants, streamlining the application process. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the Department's cooperation with the commission and other states in reorganizing or reopening abandoned railway lines, allowing for the use of both public and private funds to achieve these goals. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of rail service assistance in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 49-17.1-02, 49-17.1-03, 49-17.1-04
Enrollment: 49-17.1-02, 49-17.1-03, 49-17.1-04
INTRODUCED: 49-17.1-02, 49-17.1-03, 49-17.1-04