Bill > HB1604

This bill establishes a comprehensive state-funded school construction program for North Dakota that provides financial assistance to school districts for building new schools or renovating existing facilities. To qualify for funding, school districts must submit a detailed report demonstrating that renovation costs exceed 60% of new construction costs, provide evidence of a failed referendum for new construction between specific date ranges, show how they will fund their portion of construction costs, and present a maintenance plan for the new building. The state will contribute varying percentages of construction costs based on the value of a mill (a tax assessment unit) in each school district, ranging from 95% funding for districts with low mill values to just 5% for districts with high mill values. The bill creates a specific process for selecting an architectural firm, prioritizing companies with a strong state presence, experience in school construction, and innovative design capabilities. A dedicated evaluation committee will oversee the selection of the architectural firm and construction managers, with a focus on local businesses. The bill appropriates $600,000,000 for the school construction grant program for the 2025-2027 biennium and will remain in effect until July 1, 2035, providing a long-term framework for addressing school infrastructure needs in North Dakota.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo1604.html