Bill > HB1020

This bill appropriates a total of $769,257,471 from other funds to the Department of Water Resources for the period ending June 30, 2027, to cover various expenses and projects. * **Department of Water Resources Operations:** $25,332,025 for salaries and wages, and $30,543,113 for operating expenses. * **Water Supply Projects:** $101,000,000 for the Southwest Pipeline Project, $106,857,325 for Northwest Area Water Supply, $110,000,000 for general Water Supply, and $245,000,000 for Regional Water Supply projects. * **Water Supply and Flood Control Grants:** $316,200,000 for Water Supply - Grants, $52,000,000 for Rural Water Supply - Grants, $115,700,000 for Flood Control Grants, and $117,600,000 for general Flood Control projects. * **Bank of North Dakota Line of Credit:** $260,000,000 is available through a line of credit from the Bank of North Dakota for water infrastructure revolving loan fund and other water projects. * **Discretionary Funding:** $10,000,000 for discretionary use by the Department of Water Resources, excluding salaries and wages. * **Capital Assets:** $2,553,950 for capital asset purchases. * **Water Topics Overview Committee:** The bill amends statutes to clarify the powers and duties of the Water Topics Overview Committee, including its role in reviewing and recommending large water project funding requests. * **Attorney Employment:** The bill amends statutes to allow the Department of Water Resources, along with other specified state agencies, to employ attorneys appointed by the Attorney General. * **Biota Water Treatment Plant Operating Fund:** A continuing appropriation is established for federal funds received for the operation of the northwest area water supply's biota water treatment plant. * **Studies and Reports:** The bill mandates several studies and reports related to water projects, storm water, and regional water system governance, to be conducted during the 2025-26 interim and reported to the legislative assembly. * **Funding for Specific Projects:** Specific allocations are detailed for the Red River Valley Water Supply Project ($205,000,000) and the Mouse River Flood Control Project ($81,100,000). * **Transfer of Funds:** $40,000,000 is transferred from the Resources Trust Fund to the Water Infrastructure Revolving Loan Fund. * **Continuing Appropriation for Grants:** Unexpended funds for certain grants and water-related projects may be continued into the 2025-27 biennium.