This bill appropriates funds for various state departments and initiatives in North Dakota for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, with specific allocations for the Department of Commerce, the Attorney General, the Department of Career and Technical Education, and the State Fair Association. A significant addition is the establishment of grant reporting requirements for the Department of Commerce, which will enhance transparency regarding the use of funds. The bill also amends existing sections related to the North Dakota Development Fund and the Division of Workforce Development, including renaming the Office of Legal Immigration to the Global Talent Office, reflecting a focus on attracting and integrating foreign labor into the workforce.

Furthermore, the bill outlines one-time funding allocations for projects such as autonomous technology, tourism marketing, and workforce training, along with provisions for matching funds and a line of credit from the Bank of North Dakota to support the North Dakota Development Fund. It emphasizes the importance of reporting on these funds to the legislative assembly and includes initiatives aimed at economic growth and workforce development. Key amendments include the creation of a statewide nonprofit development corporation with expanded authority for business loans and partnerships, the establishment of an uncrewed aircraft systems test site, and a special fund for uncrewed aircraft systems, all of which will require semiannual reporting to the legislative management. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance economic development and improve workforce strategies in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senate Appropriations - Government Operations Division Committee: 54-60-31
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 54-60-31
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations Committee: 10-30.5-02, 54-58-03, 54-60-09, 54-60-19, 54-60-28, 54-60-29, 54-60-29.1, 54-60-31
25.0185.02015 : 10-30.5-02, 54-60-09, 54-60-19, 54-60-28, 54-60-29, 54-60-29.1, 54-60-31
25.0185.02016 : 10-30.5-02, 54-60-09, 54-60-19, 54-60-28, 54-60-29, 54-60-29.1, 54-60-31
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Conference Committee: 10-30.5-02, 54-60-09, 54-60-19, 54-60-28, 54-60-29, 54-60-29.1, 54-60-31
Enrollment: 10-30.5-02, 54-60-09, 54-60-19, 54-60-28, 54-60-29, 54-60-29.1, 54-60-31