The bill proposes the establishment of a new wastewater infrastructure grant program under the North Dakota Century Code, specifically within chapter 23.1-07. The program will be administered by the Department of Environmental Quality, which will award grants to eligible entities such as cities, counties, and water districts for projects aimed at upgrading, replacing, or constructing wastewater systems. The grants will cover up to sixty percent of the total project costs, with a limit of one grant per community per biennium. Eligible projects must comply with current wastewater regulations, and operations and maintenance costs are excluded from funding.

Additionally, the bill includes an appropriation of $25 million from the strategic investment and improvements fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2027, specifically for these wastewater infrastructure grants. At least half of this funding must be allocated to cities with populations under 12,500, based on the latest federal census. If the minimum allocation is not met by April 1, 2027, the remaining funds may be distributed to other eligible projects. This funding is designated as a one-time allocation.