North Dakota Senate Bill SB2326

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Engrossed: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Report Pass: 4/7/23

Caption

The use of economic analysis for flood control and water conveyance projects and works.

Impact

If enacted, SB2326 would significantly influence state laws concerning water management and infrastructure planning. The requirement for economic analysis may lead to more informed decision-making processes that balance environmental concerns with economic viability. This could enhance accountability and transparency in how flood control projects are selected and implemented, potentially leading to improved outcomes for communities affected by flooding risk.

Summary

SB2326 aims to mandate the use of economic analysis in the planning and execution of flood control and water conveyance projects. This bill is a response to ongoing concerns about the effectiveness and efficiency of such projects in managing water resources, particularly in areas prone to flooding. By requiring an economic framework for assessing these projects, the bill intends to ensure that decisions are data-driven and consider long-term economic impacts on communities and the environment.

Sentiment

Discussion around SB2326 has highlighted a mixture of support and criticism. Proponents praise the bill for introducing rigor and accountability into the decision-making process for crucial infrastructure projects. They argue that economic analysis will lead to better prioritization of projects that deliver the most value to the public. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about potential bureaucratic hurdles that could delay project implementations and question whether economic factors should outweigh community needs and ecological considerations.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB2326 is the balance between economic efficiency and the immediate needs of vulnerable communities facing flood risks. Critics fear that undue emphasis on economic analysis could sideline urgent projects that may not have immediate financial justification but are necessary for protecting lives and property. Furthermore, the bill's implementation would necessitate the development of standard methodologies for conducting economic analyses, which could pose additional challenges in terms of consistency and accountability.