The bill amends section 15-11-40 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertains to the activities of the state energy research center at the University of North Dakota. The center is tasked with conducting exploratory, transformational, and innovative research to enhance energy opportunities while benefiting the state's economy and environment. The bill outlines the center's responsibilities, including reporting its research activities annually to the interim legislative energy development and transmission committee and the industrial commission, as well as to the appropriations committees upon request.

A significant change in the bill allows the state energy research center to conduct research related to high-level radioactive waste, provided it is approved by the industrial commission and conducted in consultation with the high-level radioactive waste advisory council. The previous prohibition against conducting research or pursuing projects that would lead to the exploration, storage, treatment, or disposal of high-level radioactive waste above ground in North Dakota has been removed. This amendment reflects a shift in policy, potentially opening new avenues for research in this area.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15-11-40
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Porter: 15-11-40
Adopted by the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 15-11-40
Enrollment: 15-11-40