This bill proposes the creation of two new funds within the North Dakota Century Code: the County and Township Bridge Fund and the Legacy Earnings Tax Relief Fund. It amends section 21-10-13 to redirect funding from the legacy earnings fund, specifically replacing a previous allocation to the general fund for tax relief initiatives with a new allocation of $100 million to the County and Township Bridge Fund. Additionally, any remaining funds after specified transfers will now be directed to the Legacy Earnings Tax Relief Fund instead of being split between the general fund and the strategic investment and improvements fund.

The County and Township Bridge Fund will consist of moneys deposited from the legacy earnings fund and will be used for grants to counties for the repair or replacement of bridges. An appropriation of $80 million is designated for this purpose for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2027. The bill also allocates $20 million to the Department of Transportation for similar bridge projects in counties that receive less than $500,000. The legislative intent is to ensure ongoing funding for these bridge projects through June 30, 2035, with the provisions of the bill set to expire after that date.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 21-10-13