This bill proposes an appropriation for the Department of Environmental Quality in North Dakota, covering the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. The total funds appropriated amount to $131,981,873, which includes base level enhancements and various allocations for salaries, operating expenses, capital assets, and grants. Notably, the bill outlines one-time funding for specific projects, including the establishment of a new chemistry laboratory and equipment for an emerging contaminants program, totaling $5,438,386. Additionally, it specifies that the department may not spend funds from the new and vacant full-time equivalent (FTE) pool without a transfer request to the Office of Management and Budget.

Furthermore, the bill amends section 23.1-13-16 of the North Dakota Century Code regarding inspection fees for motor vehicle fuels. It establishes that the inspection fees collected will now be deposited into the Department of Environmental Quality operating fund, rather than the general fund, and these funds will be used for the state fuel inspection program, subject to legislative appropriations. The bill also maintains the requirement for licensed dealers to report the gallons of fuel sold and pay the corresponding inspection fees monthly.

Statutes affected:
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Davison: 23.1-13-16
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 23.1-13-16