Disaster or emergency response and recovery costs, authority to spend funds from the state disaster relief fund, and uses of the state disaster relief fund.
Impact
The bill is significant in that it clarifies the authority of the office of the adjutant general in managing disaster response funding. It allows for the borrowing of funds from the Bank of North Dakota in order to ensure that the state can provide the necessary resources during emergencies. This aligns the state's procedures with federal laws under the Stafford Act, facilitating quicker response times and more effective utilization of emergency funds. The establishment of a state disaster relief fund will enable the state to prepare in advance for potential financial needs during emergencies.
Summary
House Bill 1073 focuses on the amendment and reenactment of sections related to disaster or emergency response and recovery costs in the North Dakota Century Code. The main intent of the bill is to streamline the processes by which the state can respond to disasters or emergencies, including defining the parameters for funding and expenditures from the state disaster relief fund. This includes establishing clear procedures for declaring disasters, managing funds, and approving loans needed to match federal assistance after such events.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1073 is generally positive, particularly among legislators who emphasize the importance of a coordinated response to disasters. Supporters argue that streamlining funding processes is crucial in maintaining readiness for unforeseen emergencies and ensuring that resources are deployed effectively when needed. However, there may be concerns among some members of the public or local governments about the potential for state overreach in local emergency matters, emphasizing the need for communication and cooperation between state and local agencies.
Contention
Key points of contention regarding HB 1073 may arise from the balance of power between state and local authorities. Critics may argue that consolidating power within the office of the adjutant general and the state emergency commission could lead to a one-size-fits-all approach to disaster management, potentially undermining local control. It remains crucial for the state to engage with local governments to address specific needs and circumstances unique to different regions in the event of a disaster.
Fuel production facility loan guarantee reserve funding, the housing incentive fund, the powers of the North Dakota pipeline authority, definitions for the clean sustainable energy authority, a clean sustainable energy authority line of credit, and an appropriation from the state fiscal recovery fund; to provide a contingent appropriation; to provide for a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a study; to provide for a report; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.
Funds under management of the state investment board, opioid antagonist prescription, distribution, possession, or use, and the funding of the opioid treatment and prevention program; to provide an appropriation; to provide for a transfer; to provide for application; and to declare an emergency.
The legacy investment for technology program, the North Dakota development fund, the workforce enhancement council, the administration of uncrewed aircraft system programs, workforce development grants to tribally controlled community colleges, and a North Dakota development fund grant program; to provide a transfer; to provide an exemption; to provide for a report; and to declare an emergency.
The salaries of the public service commissioners, the transfer and distribution of funds in the highway tax distribution fund, and siting process administrative fees; to provide a transfer; and to declare an emergency.
A Bank of North Dakota line of credit and state water commission discretionary funding; to provide for a transfer; to provide for a report; to provide legislative intent; to provide an exemption; and to declare an emergency.
AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the office of the adjutant general; to provide an exemption; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a transfer; and to declare an emergency.