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's energy and environmental research center. The center is tasked with conducting exploratory, transformational, and innovative research to enhance future 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 or pursue projects related to high-level radioactive waste, provided that such activities are 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 result in 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 regarding the center's research capabilities in relation to high-level radioactive waste management.

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