The bill amends and reenacts several sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the hearing and appeals processes of the Department of Water Resources. Key changes include the requirement for written comments regarding proposed appropriations to be submitted by a specified date, with electronic submissions needing to include the submitter's name and mailing address. The bill also stipulates that if a public hearing is requested, the Department must notify the applicant and those who submitted comments by certified mail at least twenty days before the hearing. Additionally, the bill clarifies the process for appeals of board decisions, allowing aggrieved parties to appeal to the Department of Water Resources within thirty days of receiving the board's decision, and outlines the Department's responsibilities in investigating and determining the matter.

Further amendments include provisions for the Department to notify landowners of noncompliance regarding dams, dikes, or drains, and the process for assessing costs for removal or closure of these structures. The bill removes previous requirements for landowners to demand a hearing within a specific timeframe and establishes that any party aggrieved by a decision of the Department may request a hearing and appeal to district court. New language has been added to ensure that if the Department dismisses a complaint, it must notify all parties of record and include the investigation report, if applicable. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the processes related to water resource management and enhance transparency in decision-making.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 61-04-05.1, 61-16.1-53.1, 61-32-08
Enrollment: 61-04-05.1, 61-16.1-53.1, 61-32-08
PREFILED: 61-04-05.1, 61-16.1-53.1, 61-32-08