Transportation (Roads & Highways)

SB 2142 would redirect 25% of North Dakota's motor vehicle excise tax revenue to a new "township road and bridge sustainability fund" instead of previous allocations. This fund would provide annual payments to non-oil-producing counties for road and bridge projects in eligible townships, based on road miles. To qualify, townships must submit annual certifications showing road miles, township funds, and local tax rates, while excluding those that didn't maintain roads or met other criteria. The bill specifies that funds must be used solely for road and bridge construction, maintenance, or repairs. It would take effect for taxes collected after July 31, 2025, if passed.

HB 1444 amends North Dakota law to clarify the process for adding local roads to the county road system. It requires county commissioners to notify townships when a road meets criteria under section 24-05-16 and is under township jurisdiction, and to hold a public meeting for community input before making a final decision. This directly affects county commissioners, townships, and residents who use these local roads, ensuring transparency in road system expansion. The bill does not change road maintenance responsibilities but adds a procedural step for community engagement.

HB 1235 amends North Dakota's agriculture infrastructure grant program to specifically fund road and bridge improvements needed for value-added agriculture businesses. It directs the agriculture commissioner (with transportation department input) to award grants to counties, cities, and townships for projects like corridor upgrades on local roads or access road/bridge repairs serving these businesses. The bill directly affects local governments managing infrastructure and businesses processing agricultural products (like food manufacturing or packaging). Key provisions require grants to target infrastructure directly supporting value-added agriculture operations, not general road maintenance. This law, signed by the governor on March 24, 2025, clarifies and expands the program's focus.