North Dakota House Bill HCR3001

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/23
• Refer: 1/3/23
• Report Pass: 1/18/23
• Engrossed: 1/23/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Report Pass: 3/15/23
• Enrolled: 3/21/23
• Passed: 3/22/23

Caption

A concurrent resolution authorizing the Budget Section of the Legislative Management to hold the required legislative hearings on state plans for the receipt and expenditure of new or revised block grants passed by Congress.

Impact

The resolution allows the Budget Section to continue fulfilling its responsibilities in relation to these block grants, particularly as the Sixty-eighth Legislative Assembly will not reconvene in regular session in 2024. This delegation of authority emphasizes the importance of ongoing public engagement and transparency in the funding process, especially with grants that may be legislatively approved after the recess or adjournment of the assembly.

Summary

HCR3001 is a concurrent resolution passed by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly, authorizing the Budget Section of the Legislative Management to conduct required legislative hearings concerning the receipt and expenditure of new or revised block grants that have been passed by Congress. This resolution stems from the need to manage funds allocated through the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981 and ensure compliance with federal requirements regarding public input and oversight on community services block grants.

Sentiment

The passage of HCR3001 appears to have been met with broad support among legislators, as indicated by the unanimous vote of 90-0 during the House Second reading. This indicates a shared recognition of the necessity for proper management of federal funds allocated to state projects, pandemic recovery efforts, and community services, reflecting a collaborative sentiment among lawmakers regarding the stewardship of state funding.

Contention

While there does not appear to be significant contention surrounding HCR3001 given the unanimous support, the underlying issue of reliance on block grants and federal funding may lead to debates in future discussions. Stakeholders might raise concerns on how effectively the state utilizes these funds, ensuring they meet the specific needs of communities across North Dakota, particularly as new grants may bring additional guidelines and requirements.