HB 1004 provides an appropriation of funds to cover the operational expenses of the State Auditor's office. Additionally, it amends section 54-10-10 of the North Dakota Century Code, which specifically relates to and sets the salary for the State Auditor. These provisions directly affect the funding for the State Auditor's office and the compensation of the individual holding the State Auditor position.
SB 2022 provides an appropriation to cover the operating expenses of the commission responsible for providing legal counsel to indigent individuals. The bill also amends state law by adding a new subsection to define categories of positions within the state service. Finally, it mandates that the legislative management conduct a study.
SB 2340 requires North Dakota's legislature to conduct a study during the 2025-26 interim on evolving fire service needs. The study will examine regional response teams, coordination of state resources, staffing, training, and funding alternatives to reduce reliance on local property taxes. It mandates consultation with fire departments, the fire marshal, and other stakeholders to identify policy changes needed for a unified fire service system. This procedural bill does not enact new law but aims to inform future legislative action.
Relating to the gaming commission, gaming stamp requirements, and the attorney general's regulation of gaming; to provide a penalty; and to provide an appropriation.
HB 1468 appropriates $16 million from North Dakota's general fund to the Department of Health and Human Services for grants supporting behavioral health facilities. It requires grantees to increase inpatient behavioral health beds by 30 in the west central region and operate facilities for at least 10 years, with repayment required if they fail to meet this term. Grant funds are disbursed only after infrastructure is complete and staffing plans are approved. The bill directly affects entities building or expanding behavioral health facilities in the specified region.
HB 1603 appropriates $500,000 from North Dakota's general fund to the state historical society for compliance with the federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). The funds establish a committee with tribal historic preservation officers, state agencies, and the attorney general's office to prioritize returning human remains, sacred objects, and culturally significant items to North Dakota tribes. Tribes must contribute up to $100,000 in matching funds for committee efforts, and all funds must be tracked separately. The bill explicitly prohibits using these funds for new scientific studies of ancestral remains. This law directly affects North Dakota tribes and the state historical society by enabling repatriation efforts under federal law.
SB 2305 modifies North Dakota law related to the family paid caregiver service pilot project, which allows family members to be compensated for providing care. The bill also adjusts provisions concerning the cross-disability advisory council. Additionally, it provides an appropriation, allocating funds for these services and the council's operations.
SB 2017 allocates $3,029,082 in state funds to cover salaries, operating expenses, and 5 full-time positions for North Dakota's Office of Administrative Hearings during the 2025-2027 biennium. The bill provides specific funding levels for the office's operations without changing existing laws or regulations. It directly affects the Office of Administrative Hearings by ensuring its budget for the next two years. This is a routine funding measure, not a policy change.
SB 2143 amends North Dakota law concerning the funding of the state energy research center fund. This bill establishes a continuing appropriation, ensuring that revenue will be automatically deposited into the fund without needing annual legislative approval. The measure aims to provide a consistent financial basis for the state's energy research efforts. However, this continuing appropriation is set to expire on a specific date.
SB 2234 appropriates $2 million from North Dakota's general fund for competitive grants to school districts to help high school students meet the state's "choice ready" framework. The bill requires school districts to apply with specific plans showing how grant funds will develop students' skills for postsecondary education, careers, or military service - directly affecting school districts and their high school students. Funds cannot cover general supplies or equipment but must support targeted experiences like career training or college preparation. The grants are intended for the 2025-2027 biennium and align with the state's goal of ensuring all students graduate prepared for life after high school.