The bill amends several sections of the North Dakota Century Code to enhance the operations and governance of the lignite research council and the industrial commission. Key changes include updating the declaration of findings to reflect current statistics on lignite production and its economic impact, such as the annual production of twenty-five million tons and the generation of twelve billion dollars in business volume. The bill also introduces new provisions that empower the lignite research council to engage in regular consultations with the industrial commission, establish a more structured membership composition for the council, and prioritize funding for projects that preserve jobs and promote economic growth in coal-producing counties.

Additionally, the bill expands the powers of the industrial commission, allowing it to allocate funding for a technical advisor to support program operations and ensure effective use of funds. It also clarifies that certain materials submitted to the commission, deemed as trade secrets or proprietary information, are not considered public records, thereby enhancing confidentiality for applicants. The bill aims to strengthen the lignite industry in North Dakota by promoting research, development, and marketing initiatives while ensuring environmental protection and economic stability.

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