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.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding the governance of water districts, including the requirement for participating members seeking election to the board to present a petition with signatures from ten members. It also establishes a structured election process, dividing directors into classes with staggered terms and outlining procedures for filling vacancies. The bill emphasizes transparency in elections, ensuring that all stages of the election process are accessible to participating members.

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