This bill proposes significant amendments and repeals concerning weather modification operations in North Dakota. It introduces a new section to chapter 61-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, allowing the governor to consider disaster mitigation measures and directing state agencies to study related matters. The bill amends subsection 1 of section 37-17.1-11 to clarify state agencies' responsibilities in disaster management and adopts a more periodic approach to recommendations. Additionally, it repeals section 37-17.1-15 and chapter 61-04.1, which previously addressed weather modification, indicating a shift in the state's stance on this issue. The bill also removes the authorization for township funds to be spent on weather modification activities and updates the priorities for statewide water development projects to exclude weather modification from being declared in the public interest.

Moreover, the bill enhances floodplain management and water resource management by empowering the board to seek assistance from the state water commission for floodplain studies and making recommendations for establishing floodplain zones. It mandates coordination among various entities for the development and maintenance of water supply systems and the installation of water control structures. A notable change is the classification of weather modification activities as a class B misdemeanor, with a broad definition encompassing various methods aimed at altering weather elements. The repeal of existing laws related to weather modification operations effectively nullifies previous regulations, reinforcing the bill's aim to improve floodplain management while imposing strict penalties for unauthorized weather modification activities.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 37-17.1-11, 58-03-07, 61-02.1-02.1, 61-16.1-09
INTRODUCED: 37-17.1-11, 58-03-07, 61-02.1-02.1, 61-16.1-09