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 projects addressing critical needs in community development, education, health, and the preservation of rural grocery stores.

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, and allocates the same amount for the rural catalyst grant program. The Department of Commerce will administer the grant program and is required to report biennially to the legislative management on the program's outcomes and the status of funded projects.

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