This bill aims to enhance the certification and regulation of water distribution and wastewater system operators in North Dakota by amending existing laws and introducing new provisions. Key amendments include the adjustment of the certificate validity period to one year, expiring on the first day of July following its issuance. The bill also modifies the fee structure for certification, allowing the department to prescribe reasonable fees based on the anticipated costs of processing applications and administering examinations, rather than adhering to a fixed fee limit. Additionally, the department is tasked with holding annual examinations, which may be conducted by a third-party service, and maintaining comprehensive records of operator qualifications.

Furthermore, the bill introduces stricter penalties for violations of the chapter, establishing civil penalties of up to five thousand dollars per day for non-compliance, and class A misdemeanors for willful violations after receiving written notice. It also creates a new section outlining the administrative procedures and judicial review processes for rule adoption and compliance determinations, ensuring that these proceedings align with existing legal frameworks. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the oversight and accountability of water and wastewater system operators in the state.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 23.1-07-04, 23.1-07-05, 23.1-07-06, 23.1-07-08
Adopted by the Senate Workforce Development Committee: 23.1-07-04, 23.1-07-05, 23.1-07-06, 23.1-07-08
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 23.1-07-04, 23.1-07-05, 23.1-07-06, 23.1-07-08
PREFILED: 23.1-07-04, 23.1-07-05, 23.1-07-06, 23.1-07-08