This bill proposes the creation of a new section in the North Dakota Century Code that explicitly prohibits the establishment and operation of natural asset companies within the state. A natural asset company is defined as a corporation focused on managing and enhancing the value of natural assets and ecosystem services. The bill outlines several restrictions, including prohibiting the state or its political subdivisions from selling, leasing, or otherwise encumbering land or resources to such companies, as well as banning public funds from being invested in them. Additionally, it prevents any bond offerings involving natural asset companies and voids any acquisitions of state-owned land by these entities.
The bill also establishes enforcement mechanisms, allowing various stakeholders, including the governor and private citizens, to file actions in district court against violations. If a violation is found, ownership of the affected land would revert to the previous owner, and the court may award attorney's fees to the plaintiff. Furthermore, the Secretary of State is prohibited from accepting corporate filings or amendments from natural asset companies, ensuring that they cannot operate or conduct business in North Dakota. Overall, the legislation aims to protect state resources from being managed or controlled by natural asset companies.