This bill establishes a Rural Catalyst Committee and a corresponding grant program aimed at enhancing the quality of life and promoting economic development in rural communities across North Dakota. The committee will consist of members appointed from regional councils, at-large community representatives, a legislative assembly member, and the governor or their designee. The committee is tasked with meeting at least twice a year to review grant applications, prioritizing projects that foster rural prosperity. Additionally, the bill outlines the creation of a Rural Catalyst Fund, which will be used to provide grants for various community needs, including economic development and health initiatives, with a maximum grant award of $500,000.

The bill also amends existing definitions in the North Dakota Century Code, including the addition of terms such as "Commissioner" and "Department," while removing the definition of "Minority group." It appropriates $2.5 million from the strategic investment and improvements fund to the Rural Catalyst Fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2027, to support the grant program. Furthermore, the Department of Commerce is responsible for administering the grant program and will report biennially to the legislative management on the program's outcomes and impacts on local communities.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 54-40.1-02
Adopted by the Senate Agriculture and Veterans Affairs Committee: 54-40.1-02
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 54-40.1-02
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Senator Dwyer: 54-40.1-02
SECOND ENGROSSMENT: 54-40.1-02
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Motschenbacher: 54-40.1-02
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for House Appropriations Committee: 54-40.1-02
Adopted by the Conference Committee: 54-40.1-02
Enrollment: 54-40.1-02