North Dakota House Bill HCR3029

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Report DNP: 3/9/23

Caption

A concurrent resolution directing the Legislative Management to consider studying whether the Fort Berthold Reservation should have stand-alone ambient air quality monitors to track and mitigate air and water pollution that may result from oil and gas development.

Impact

This resolution highlights the state's responsibility to monitor and assess environmental health, specifically regarding air quality in oil and gas-producing regions. The resolution indicates a proactive approach to safeguarding public health and the environment by establishing baseline data through historical data reviews conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency. This data may guide future legislative action by ensuring that the concerns of the Fort Berthold Reservation are adequately addressed in the context of ongoing and future oil and gas developments.

Summary

HCR3029 proposes a concurrent resolution that directs the Legislative Management of North Dakota to consider conducting a study on the implementation of stand-alone ambient air quality monitors on the Fort Berthold Reservation. The primary objective of this resolution is to track and mitigate air and water pollution that may arise from oil and gas development activities in the area. By studying the presence of volatile organic compounds, the initiative seeks to enhance public awareness and address potential environmental health risks associated with hydrocarbon extraction.

Contention

The discussions around HCR3029 have brought to light the balancing act between economic development driven by oil and gas extraction and the need for environmental protection. While proponents argue that the monitoring will help mitigate pollution and protect public health, there may be contention surrounding the costs and feasibility of implementing such monitoring systems. The potential for backlash from the oil and gas industry, which may feel restricted by increased regulations, could also be a point of discussion as the resolution is debated further.