This bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to establish definitions and policies regarding critical minerals and rare earth minerals, particularly in relation to their extraction from coal. It introduces a new definition for "critical minerals" and "rare earth minerals," specifying that these minerals are essential for the economic and national security of the United States and are often found chemically bound within coal seams. The bill emphasizes the importance of developing these resources to enhance economic recovery and job creation in the state, while also recognizing the need for responsible production to meet national demands.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that leases for coal in North Dakota will automatically include rights to any critical and rare earth minerals contained within the coal unless explicitly excluded. It mandates that operators pay a minimum royalty of 2.5% on the gross proceeds from the sale of these minerals, ensuring that mineral owners receive compensation for their resources. The legislation also retroactively applies to existing leases and aims to facilitate the extraction and processing of these minerals, thereby promoting economic benefits for landowners and the state.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 47-10-24
Adopted by the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 38-12-02, 47-10-24
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 38-12-02, 47-10-24
Adopted by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 38-12-01
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Porter: 38-12-01, 47-10-24
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Anderson: 38-12-01, 47-10-24
Enrollment: 38-12-01, 47-10-24