This bill proposes significant amendments and repeals concerning weather modification operations in North Dakota, reflecting a shift in the state's approach to disaster management and water resource management. It introduces a new section to chapter 61-01 of the North Dakota Century Code that outlines the responsibilities of state agencies in disaster mitigation, particularly in floodplain management and emergency response. The bill amends section 37-17.1-11 to clarify the governor's role in disaster mitigation, emphasizing the involvement of "state agencies." Additionally, it repeals section 37-17.1-15 and chapter 61-04.1, which previously governed weather modification, indicating a move away from these practices.

Moreover, the bill modifies the powers of township electors and the water resource board, specifically removing the authority for townships to authorize expenditures for weather modification activities and updating the priorities for statewide water development projects to exclude weather modification. A notable change is the introduction of a new section that prohibits weather modification activities, classifying violations as a class B misdemeanor. This broad definition of "weather modification" includes various methods of altering weather elements, and the repeal of existing laws related to weather modification establishes a clear legal framework against such practices in the state.

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