This bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to costs and fees in eminent domain proceedings. It establishes that when a public corporation acquires property through condemnation, it is bound by the judgment and must pay the full amount of damages within six months. If the public corporation dismisses the action before judgment, the court is required to award the defendant reasonable costs, which now explicitly include attorney's fees and costs for retaining an expert witness. Additionally, the court may award costs to the defendant, including interest and attorney's fees, and if the defendant appeals and does not prevail, those costs may be taxed against them.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if the state or any public entity withdraws or dismisses eminent domain proceedings without the defendant's agreement, they are liable for all court costs, expenses, and fees incurred by the landowner, including reasonable attorney's fees and expert witness costs. This amendment aims to clarify the responsibilities of public entities in eminent domain cases and ensure that defendants are compensated for their legal expenses when proceedings are dismissed.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 32-15-28, 32-15-32, 32-15-35