The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the oversight and governance of water districts. It mandates that the state auditor conduct audits of various political subdivisions, including water resource districts and water districts subject to chapter 61-35, every two years. Additionally, it modifies the petition requirements for audits, allowing water districts to be audited upon a petition of at least ten percent or three hundred participating members, whichever is fewer. The bill also introduces new provisions regarding the election process for board directors, ensuring transparency and accessibility for participating members.

Furthermore, the bill establishes specific requirements for the bylaws of water districts, including the need for annual meetings and the process for members to present petitions for board elections. It outlines the division of directors into classes, the terms of office, and the procedure for filling vacancies. New provisions ensure that all elections are conducted in a manner that allows participating members to observe the process, promoting fairness and accountability within the governance of water districts.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 54-10-14, 54-10-15, 61-35-09, 61-35-10
Adopted by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee: 54-10-14, 54-10-15, 61-35-09, 61-35-10
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 54-10-14, 54-10-15, 61-35-09, 61-35-10
Enrollment: 54-10-14, 54-10-15, 61-35-09, 61-35-10