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 continuing 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 increases the line of credit from the Bank of North Dakota to $260 million and requires the department to report on the use of one-time funding items.

The bill also amends existing laws regarding the employment of attorneys by state agencies, stipulating that only the Attorney General can appoint legal counsel while allowing certain departments to hire attorneys under specific conditions. It enhances the powers of the water topics overview committee, mandating quarterly meetings and reports on project prioritization and funding allocations. Furthermore, it allows the state water commission to contract for studies on regional water systems without adhering to procurement requirements, provided they do not benefit from the systems. The bill includes provisions for transferring funds between operating expenses and capital assets, exemptions for certain appropriations, and the carryover of unexpended funds into the next biennium.

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