North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1581

Introduced
1/20/25  
Refer
1/20/25  
Report Pass
2/14/25  
Refer
2/17/25  
Report Pass
2/24/25  
Engrossed
2/25/25  
Refer
3/7/25  
Report Pass
4/4/25  
Refer
4/4/25  
Report Pass
4/11/25  
Enrolled
4/17/25  

Caption

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for tribal tourism grants; and to provide for a legislative management report.

Impact

If enacted, HB1581 would establish a framework for supporting tribal tourism initiatives, aimed at increasing visitor engagement with tribal histories and attractions. The expected outcome is not only the enhancement of tourism but also the economic benefits that come from increased visitor spending in tribal regions. Furthermore, the bill includes a requirement for the Department of Commerce to report back to legislative management on the distribution and impact of these grants, ensuring accountability and proper utilization of the funds.

Summary

House Bill 1581 seeks to provide funding for tribal tourism grants in North Dakota. The bill proposes an appropriation of $100,000 to the Department of Commerce for the purpose of supporting tribal governments in promoting and enhancing tourism opportunities related to their respective nations. Each tribe can apply for grants of up to $20,000, contingent upon matching funds committed by the tribal government. The intent is to leverage these funds to foster tourism that aligns with the cultural heritage and history of the tribes in the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around the bill appears to be positive, with recognition of the importance of cultural tourism as a means of preserving tribal identities and promoting economic growth. Lawmakers seem to acknowledge the potential benefits of investing in tribal tourism, thereby supporting both tribal sovereignty and local economies. The bill received a majority of votes in both the House and Senate, indicating broad legislative support.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, potential points of contention may arise concerning the administration of the grants and whether the allocated funds will be sufficient to meet the promotional needs of the tribal nations. There may also be discussions surrounding the impact of such tourism on local communities, including any environmental or cultural considerations inherent in increased visitor traffic to tribal lands. Thus, while the bill aims to enhance tourism, it could raise further debates about balancing economic development with preserving the integrity of tribal cultures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB1007

AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the veterans' home; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide for a report.

ND SB2024

AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the ethics commission; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide for a legislative management report.

ND HB1519

AN ACT to provide appropriations to the department of career and technical education and agriculture commissioner for uncrewed aircraft system, autonomous vehicle, or other autonomous technology grants; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide a report.

ND SB2016

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.

ND SB2004

The powers and duties of the state auditor and the salary of the state auditor; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1008

AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the department of financial institutions; to provide an exemption; and to provide for a legislative management study.

ND HB1480

A pay for success fund; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide for a continuing appropriation; to provide for a transfer; and to provide an effective date.

ND HB1532

The establishment of an educational reimbursement program; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide an appropriation; and to provide an effective date.

ND HB1544

Use of the North Dakota development fund; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide for retroactive application; and to provide an effective date.

ND SB2240

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for the base retention grant program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.