The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code concerning the lignite research council, the industrial commission, and public record exemptions. It updates the declaration of findings to reflect that North Dakota's lignite industry produces approximately twenty-five million tons of lignite annually, generating over twelve thousand direct and indirect jobs and nearly six billion dollars in annual business volume. The bill emphasizes the importance of supporting the development and utilization of lignite resources while 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 outlines the structure and operations of the lignite research council, which will now consist of twenty-four members appointed by the governor, including representatives from various sectors related to lignite. It mandates regular consultations between the industrial commission and the lignite research council, prioritizes funding for projects that preserve jobs and promote economic growth, and grants the industrial commission powers to provide financial assistance for lignite-related projects. Furthermore, it establishes confidentiality provisions for trade secrets and proprietary information submitted to the commission, ensuring that certain materials are not considered public records.

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