The bill amends section 61-34-04 of the North Dakota Century Code to update the eligibility criteria for the drought disaster livestock water assistance program. It removes the requirement for applicants to first seek cost-share assistance from the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency before applying for state assistance. Additionally, the bill eliminates the need for applicants to provide documentation of denial from the federal agency when forwarding their application to the commission for consideration.

The revised language allows applicants experiencing livestock water supply issues due to drought to apply directly for assistance without the previous prerequisites. Furthermore, it clarifies that projects initiated after applying for funding, even without prior approval from the department, are eligible for funding consideration. The bill also confirms that projects located on Indian land qualify for the program, ensuring broader access to assistance for those affected by drought conditions.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 61-34-04
PREFILED: 61-34-04