This bill appropriates $50,000,000 from the strategic investment and improvements fund to the North Dakota Department of Commerce for a housing program aimed at enhancing opportunity, mobility, and empowerment. The funding is designated for grants to political subdivisions to support the development of infrastructure necessary for affordable and market-rate housing, with a focus on addressing community-specific housing needs. The bill outlines specific allocations for communities based on population size, with $10 million for smaller communities, $20 million for mid-sized communities, $15 million for larger communities, and $5 million for rural metropolitan areas. Additionally, the bill stipulates that grant funding is contingent upon securing matching funds from nonstate sources on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

The Department of Commerce is tasked with establishing guidelines for the grant program and is required to report to the legislative management and the governor by June 30, 2026, detailing the program's status, expenditures, and the number of housing units supported. The bill also includes a provision that allows any uncommitted or unexpended funds by December 31, 2026, to be awarded to viable projects regardless of community size. This legislation is declared an emergency measure, indicating its urgent need for implementation.