Bill > HB1577

This bill establishes a new wastewater infrastructure grant program administered by the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to help local entities upgrade, replace, or construct wastewater systems. The program will award grants up to 60% of a project's total cost, with priority given to entities that have lost federal funding or are ready to quickly begin their projects. Eligible recipients include cities, counties, townships, water resource districts, recreation service districts, and water districts. The bill authorizes the DEQ to borrow up to $9.7 million through a line of credit from the Bank of North Dakota, with $7.8 million and $1.9 million allocated for grants to eligible wastewater infrastructure projects during the 2025-2027 biennium. Additionally, the bill mandates a legislative management study during the 2025-26 interim to explore the feasibility of establishing a permanent wastewater project fund, with recommendations to be reported to the 70th legislative assembly. To ensure fiscal responsibility, if an awarded entity receives additional federal funding for the same project, they must use those funds to repay the line of credit. The bill is declared an emergency measure, allowing for immediate implementation.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1577.html