This bill appropriates a total of $769,257,471 for the Department of Water Resources to cover its expenses through June 30, 2027. It establishes a new biota water treatment plant operating fund that will receive federal funds on a continuous basis. The bill allocates significant funding for various water supply projects, including $110 million for water supply, $245 million for regional water supply, and $117.6 million for flood control. Additionally, it allows for a line of credit from the Bank of North Dakota not to exceed $260 million, with specific repayment provisions.

The bill also amends existing laws regarding the employment of attorneys by state agencies, clarifying that only the Attorney General can appoint legal counsel while allowing certain agencies to employ attorneys under specific conditions. It enhances the powers of the water topics overview committee, requiring quarterly meetings and reports on project prioritization and funding allocations. Furthermore, it mandates the state water commission to conduct two studies on regional water systems governance and finance, exempt from procurement requirements, and requires the submission of draft reports by March 31, 2026. The bill allows for the transfer of funds between operating expenses and capital assets for water resources and exempts certain appropriations from standard funding regulations, including $1,800,000 for replacing the Bowman radar system. Unexpended funds, estimated at $600,000,000, can be carried over into the next biennium for their intended purposes.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Swiontek: 61-02-79
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 61-02-79
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senate Appropriations - Education and Environment Division Committee: 54-35-02.7, 61-02-79
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Conference Committee: 54-12-08, 54-35-02.7, 61-02-79
Enrollment: 54-12-08, 54-35-02.7, 61-02-79