This bill proposes the creation of a new section to chapter 54-40.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, which establishes a framework for the funding and operation of regional planning councils. It mandates that each regional council prepare a biennial work plan that includes proposed actions, targeted outcomes, and an itemized budget, ensuring alignment with the region's comprehensive economic development strategy. The work plan must be approved by the council's executive board and submitted to relevant state officials. Additionally, the bill requires counties providing financial support to maintain or exceed their funding levels to sustain regional development efforts.

The bill also outlines the funding process, stating that the Department of Commerce will provide financial support to regional councils based on legislative appropriations. It specifies that funds can be used for employment and contractual services related to the work plan but cannot be allocated for debt repayment, lobbying, or unrelated expenses. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that appropriated funds will be divided equally among the eight regions, with the remaining funds distributed according to a funding formula developed by the Department of Commerce and the association of regional councils. An appropriation of $2,400,000 is designated for the Department of Commerce to support these regional planning councils for the biennium from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027.