This bill aims to establish a new chapter in the North Dakota Century Code that focuses on the regulations, development, and production of critical minerals and rare earth elements. It introduces definitions for key terms such as "critical minerals," "extraction process," "operator," and "processing facility," which are essential for understanding the scope of the legislation. The bill emphasizes the importance of these resources for the economic and national security of the United States and mandates that any lease of coal in the state must include the right to mine all critical minerals and rare earth elements unless explicitly excluded. The bill also grants the industrial commission the authority to enforce regulations, conduct inspections, and require operators to obtain permits and provide production reports.

Additionally, the bill amends existing sections of the North Dakota Century Code to clarify the jurisdiction of the industrial commission and the definitions of minerals in leases and conveyances. It specifies that all mineral rights conveyed in real property, excluding leases, will include all minerals unless specifically excluded. Notably, it states that leases for coal will automatically include rights to critical minerals and rare earth elements associated with coal seams, reinforcing the legislative intent to promote the responsible extraction of these vital resources. The bill is declared an emergency measure, indicating the urgency of its implementation.

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