This bill amends section 61-02-01.3 of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the comprehensive water development plan by requiring the commission to develop a plan organized by river basins and to include an inventory of future water projects. It also mandates the commission to create a policy for local project sponsor participation and prioritization, particularly for projects exceeding one million dollars. Notably, the bill stipulates that an economic analysis is not required for assessment drain projects expected to cost one million dollars or less.

Additionally, the bill establishes a temporary moratorium on conducting economic analyses for assessment drain projects from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2027. During this period, the state water commission or the department of water resources is prohibited from performing such analyses. Furthermore, the legislative management is tasked with studying the formula for economic analyses related to assessment drain projects during the 2025-26 interim, with findings to be reported to the seventieth legislative assembly. The moratorium will expire on July 31, 2027.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 61-02-01.3
Adopted by the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 61-02-01.3
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 61-02-01.3
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Hagert: 61-02-01.3
Enrollment: 61-02-01.3