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 attorney general, governor, and agriculture commissioner, and will focus on biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. The council will recommend financial assistance for projects related to life sciences and will meet at least once a year. Additionally, the bill outlines the confidentiality of certain materials and data submitted to the council and the industrial commission, ensuring that trade secrets and proprietary information are protected.

Furthermore, the bill provides for the establishment of a Life Science Development Fund, which will receive a continuing appropriation and a one-time transfer of $9 million from the general fund. The industrial commission is tasked with reporting annually on the activities and expenditures related to this chapter, ensuring transparency and accountability. The bill also mandates the transfer of any remaining balance from the bioscience innovation grant fund to the new Life Science Development Fund by June 30, 2025. Sections of the bill are declared as emergency measures, indicating the urgency of implementing these changes.

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