This bill establishes a new chapter in Title 54 of the North Dakota Century Code, creating a Life Science Research Council and repealing the existing bioscience innovation grant program. The Life Science Research Council will consist of members appointed by various state officials, including the commissioner of commerce, the attorney general, the governor, and the agriculture commissioner. The council is tasked with consulting on policies related to the life science development fund, recommending financial assistance for projects, and ensuring public transparency through annual reporting to the legislative management and appropriations committees.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a continuing appropriation to the life science development fund, which will receive a transfer of $9 million from the general fund, as well as any remaining balance from the bioscience innovation grant fund by June 30, 2025. The industrial commission is granted powers to provide financial assistance for research and development in the life science industry, and the bill emphasizes the confidentiality of certain information related to trade secrets and proprietary data. The bill is declared an emergency measure, indicating its immediate importance for the state's life science initiatives.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 4.1-01-20.1
Adopted by the Senate Education Committee: 4.1-01-20.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 4.1-01-20.1
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senate Appropriations - Education and Environment Division Committee: 4.1-01-20.1
SECOND ENGROSSMENT: 4.1-01-20.1
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Cleary: 4.1-01-20.1
THIRD ENGROSSMENT: 4.1-01-20.1