The bill amends subsection 2 of section 37-17.1-07.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, focusing on the state's hazardous chemical fee system. It establishes a nonlapsing restricted account known as the state hazardous chemicals preparedness and response fund, which will be funded by revenue from the hazardous chemical fee system and appropriations from the legislative assembly. Additionally, each county will create a similar account to support local hazardous chemicals preparedness and response programs. The bill introduces new provisions regarding the setting of fees by the director of the division of homeland security, including a cap on fee increases and requirements for advance notice of any changes.

Key changes include the director's authority to set fees for the hazardous chemical fee system, with specific guidelines on fee increases and late payment penalties. The maximum fee for facilities has been adjusted from four hundred dollars to seven hundred fifty dollars, and provisions for late fees have been clarified. Exemptions from fees are provided for family farm enterprises not involved in the retail or wholesale of hazardous chemicals, as well as state and local government facilities. The bill also allows for the acceptance of grants and federal funds to support hazardous chemicals preparedness and response programs.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 37-17.1-07.1
Adopted by the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 37-17.1-07.1
Enrollment: 37-17.1-07.1
INTRODUCED: 37-17.1-07.1