The bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code to prohibit development projects and land ownership by foreign adversaries, defined as individuals or governments identified under specific federal regulations or on the Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctions list. The amendments to sections 11-11-70 and 40-05-26 establish that county and city boards cannot approve development agreements with foreign adversaries, with exceptions for those who have been registered businesses in good standing for at least seven years, have been approved by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, and maintain an active national security agreement with the federal government. The bill also includes provisions for the prohibition of foreign adversaries from acquiring real property in North Dakota, with specific criteria outlined for foreign business entities.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Department of Emergency Services to conduct a threat assessment regarding foreign adversarial influence across various sectors, including critical infrastructure and technology. The department is required to produce a report by July 1, 2026, detailing its findings, risks, and recommendations for mitigating foreign adversarial threats. This report will also propose the establishment of a state intelligence unit for ongoing monitoring of such threats. The findings will remain confidential and under the control of the Department of Emergency Services.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 11-11-70, 40-05-26, 47-01-09