The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the lignite research council, the industrial commission, and public record exemptions. Key changes include updates to the declaration of findings regarding North Dakota's lignite industry, which now states that the state produces approximately twenty-five million tons of lignite annually and generates over twelve billion dollars in annual business volume. The bill emphasizes the importance of supporting the lignite industry through research, development, and marketing programs, while also ensuring environmental protection. Additionally, it introduces new legal language that allows for litigation to defend the production and use of lignite as a vital state natural resource.

The bill also revises the structure and operations of the lignite research council, expanding its membership to twenty-four members appointed by the governor and including specific representation from various sectors related to lignite. It establishes a more formal consultation process between the industrial commission and the lignite research council, mandates regular meetings, and outlines the council's responsibilities in recommending financial assistance for projects. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that certain materials submitted to the commission are not public records if they contain trade secrets or proprietary information, thereby enhancing confidentiality protections for sensitive data related to lignite projects.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 54-17.5-01, 54-17.5-02, 54-17.5-03, 54-17.5-04, 54-17.5-06
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Novak: 54-17.5-01, 54-17.5-02, 54-17.5-03, 54-17.5-04, 54-17.5-06
Enrollment: 54-17.5-01, 54-17.5-02, 54-17.5-03, 54-17.5-04, 54-17.5-06