The bill amends subsection 3 of section 50-24.1-40 of the North Dakota Century Code to establish a tribal health care coordination fund within the state treasury. The fund's moneys are continuously appropriated to the department for distribution to tribal governments based on agreements that require the funds to be used for public health services and community health representative programs. Notably, the previous restrictions on capital construction funding have been removed, allowing for greater flexibility in how tribal governments can utilize the funds.

Additionally, the bill mandates that tribal governments submit annual reports detailing the use of the funds and conduct audits every two years, which can be funded by the distributed money. The distribution of funds is tied to the federal funding received by the tribal nations, and the department is empowered to withhold funds if reports are not submitted on time or if funds are misused. This legislative change aims to enhance accountability and ensure that the funds are used effectively to support public health initiatives within tribal communities.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 50-24.1-40