AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 38-12 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to critical minerals and rare earth minerals and royalties; to amend and reenact sections 38-12-01 and 47-10-24 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the definitions of critical minerals and rare earth minerals and descriptions and definitions of minerals in leases and conveyances; and to provide for retroactive application.

Changed the definition of 'Commission' from the public service commission to the industrial commission, shifting regulatory oversight.

Added new definitions for 'Extraction process' and 'Processing facility' to clarify what activities are regulated under the bill.

Expanded the definition of critical minerals to include those associated with coal deposits in addition to coal seams.

Added a public policy statement declaring that coal leases must include rights to mine critical minerals unless specifically excluded.

Modified the jurisdiction section to clarify that the industrial commission does not have authority over mines under the public service commission's jurisdiction under chapter 38-14.1.