This bill proposes the creation of a new chapter in Title 35 of the North Dakota Century Code, specifically addressing damages related to carbon dioxide pipelines. It introduces definitions for key terms such as "kill zone," which is defined as a twenty-five mile radius from a carbon dioxide pipeline rupture site, and establishes the rights of "victims" who may file liens against the owners of such pipelines. The bill allows victims who are present in the kill zone to claim a lien for damages incurred due to a carbon dioxide release, encompassing both compensatory and punitive damages, regardless of the owner's intent or liability.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for perfecting a lien, which requires victims to file a verified statement with the county recorder within one year of obtaining the lien. It grants retroactive priority to timely perfected liens over other encumbrances and specifies the necessary contents of the lien statement. The bill also details the termination of liens, including the obligations of victims to respond to satisfaction demands from owners or operators. In cases of bankruptcy, it mandates that funds equivalent to twice the alleged damages be held in trust for future victims, ensuring financial protection for those affected by potential carbon dioxide releases.