North Dakota House Bill HB1391

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/18/23
• Report Pass: 2/13/23
• Engrossed: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/16/23
• Report Pass: 4/7/23
• Enrolled: 4/26/23
• Passed: 4/29/23

Caption

The publication and distribution of water resource board meeting minutes.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1391 will positively impact state laws by ensuring that the operations of water resource boards are more transparent and accessible to the public. It intends to foster better public engagement by establishing clear timelines for the publication of meeting minutes, which will allow residents to stay informed about decisions affecting water resources in their communities. This transparency is crucial in facilitating informed public discourse on water management issues in North Dakota.

Summary

House Bill 1391, introduced in the North Dakota Legislative Assembly, aims to amend section 61-16.1-04 of the North Dakota Century Code. The bill focuses on the publication and distribution of meeting minutes from water resource board meetings, emphasizing the need for transparency in government operations. By mandating that unofficial minutes be provided to the county's official newspaper or posted online within ten days, the bill seeks to enhance public access to government information concerning water resource management.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1391 appears to be overwhelmingly positive. Supporters, including representatives from various stakeholder groups, have expressed their approval of the bill's focus on enhancing government transparency and accountability. The bill has gained unanimous support in voting, indicating a broad consensus among legislators on the importance of public access to meeting records and resource management decisions.

Contention

While there are no significant points of contention noted in discussions surrounding HB 1391, some stakeholders may question the feasibility of the publication timeline or the administrative burden on water resource boards. However, the bill has successfully passed through legislative channels with no opposition, reflecting a shared understanding of the need for improved transparency in government dealings related to water resources.