ND
North Dakota Senate Bill SB2290

North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SB2290

Introduced
1/16/23  
Refer
1/16/23  
Report DNP
1/27/23  
Refer
1/30/23  
Report Pass
2/3/23  
Refer
2/3/23  
Report Pass
2/17/23  
Engrossed
2/20/23  
Refer
2/21/23  
Report Pass
3/9/23  
Refer
3/9/23  

Caption

A BILL for an Act to provide an appropriation to the agriculture commissioner for grasslands grazing grants; and to provide an exemption.

Impact

The implications of SB2290 on state laws are substantial, as it aims to formalize funding mechanisms that support agricultural and environmental initiatives in North Dakota. By establishing a structured grant program, the bill encourages infrastructure improvements that help maintain the health and sustainability of grasslands. Additionally, the matching fund requirement fosters community investment in environmental projects, aligning with broader state goals of enhancing agricultural efficiency while addressing ecological concerns.

Summary

Senate Bill 2290 seeks to provide appropriations to the agriculture commissioner for programs that promote grasslands grazing through the allocation of grants. It specifies an allocation of $3 million for the purpose of distributing these funds to cooperative grazing associations within North Dakota. To qualify for a grant, organizations must contribute matching funds, stipulating a requirement of one dollar from non-state sources for every four dollars in state funding. This initiative is expected to enhance infrastructure on national grasslands, including significant projects like water development, conservation initiatives, and compliance with federal regulations aimed at promoting wildlife habitat and carbon capture.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB2290 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Proponents of the bill support the funding opportunities it creates for agricultural associations and the potential positive impacts on state ecosystems. In discussions, there seems to be a recognition of the need for collaboration between state-level initiatives and local efforts to enhance grasslands. However, the bill has faced some skepticism regarding the effectiveness of grants in achieving meaningful environmental goals without adequate oversight or additional resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB2290 include debates over the adequacy of the appropriated funds in addressing the extensive needs of grasslands management, as some stakeholders worry that $3 million may not sufficiently cover the costs of necessary improvements. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the administrative capacity of the agriculture commissioner to manage these funds effectively and ensure compliance with project guidelines. This discussion highlights the broader challenges in balancing agricultural development with environmental stewardship within legislative frameworks.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND HB1009

The salary of the agriculture commissioner; to provide for a transfer; to provide for a report; to provide an exemption; and to declare an emergency.

ND SB2009

The salary of the agriculture commissioner, the federal environmental law impact review committee, the environmental impact mitigation fund, and mitigating environmental impacts; to provide for a transfer; to provide an exemption; and to provide for a legislative management study.

ND SB2368

A grasslands grazing grant program.

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 HB1020

AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the North Dakota state university extension service, northern crops institute, upper great plains transportation institute, main research center, branch research centers, and agronomy seed farm; to provide for a report; to provide for a transfer; to provide an exemption; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1143

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the agriculture commissioner for a food distribution facility grant program.

ND HB1276

The agriculture diversification and development fund; to provide an appropriation for the agriculture diversification and development fund; and to provide for a transfer.

ND HB1148

An agriculture infrastructure fund; to provide an appropriation; and to provide for a transfer.

ND HB1003

Matching grants for legal education and the workforce education advisory council; to provide for a transfer; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide loan authorization for the Mayville state university old main project; to provide for a report; to provide an exemption; to provide legislative intent; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1012

The flexible transportation fund, motor vehicle excise tax allocations, an appropriation for township roadway funding, and the appropriation of bond proceeds for transportation projects; to provide an exemption; to provide a report; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide an effective date; and to declare an emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.