This bill amends and reenacts specific sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the allocation of oil and gas tax revenue to support infrastructure development in non-oil-producing counties. It establishes a municipal infrastructure fund and a county and township infrastructure fund, with provisions for the distribution of grants to cities and counties for essential infrastructure projects. The bill specifies that fifty percent of the funds will be allocated to the municipal infrastructure fund and fifty percent to the county and township infrastructure fund. It also outlines the criteria for grant eligibility, including the requirement for cities and counties to submit reports on the use of the funding and the consequences for failing to comply with reporting requirements.

Key insertions in the bill include the creation of the municipal and county/township infrastructure funds, which will be continuously appropriated for grants to non-oil-producing counties and cities. The bill also introduces stricter reporting requirements and penalties for non-compliance, such as ineligibility for future grants if reports are not submitted on time or if funds are misused. Additionally, it includes provisions to ensure that local ordinances do not conflict with state-approved agriculture or energy infrastructure projects, which could also lead to loss of grant eligibility. The bill aims to enhance infrastructure development while ensuring accountability and compliance with state regulations.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 57-51.1-07.7, 57-51.1-07.8
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Patten: 57-51.1-07.5, 57-51.1-07.7, 57-51.1-07.8
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 57-51.1-07.5, 57-51.1-07.7, 57-51.1-07.8