North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1591

Introduced
1/20/25  
Refer
1/20/25  
Report Pass
2/3/25  
Refer
2/3/25  
Report Pass
2/19/25  
Engrossed
2/24/25  
Refer
3/7/25  
Report Pass
3/17/25  
Refer
3/17/25  
Report Pass
4/3/25  
Enrolled
4/17/25  

Caption

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the agriculture commissioner for a county fair resiliency grant program; and to declare an emergency.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1591 is likely to have a positive impact on the state's agricultural community by providing necessary financial resources for the improvement of infrastructure associated with county fairs. It could lead to enhancements in the overall fair experience, potentially attracting more visitors and exhibitors, thereby boosting local economies. The structured matching funds requirement also encourages local investment and ownership in fair infrastructure projects, fostering community involvement.

Summary

House Bill 1591 proposes an appropriation of $1,500,000 to the agriculture commissioner of North Dakota for establishing a county fair resiliency grant program. This funding aims to support county agriculture fair associations in planning, designing, and constructing critical infrastructure projects essential for the successful operation and sustainability of county fairs. The program emphasizes community engagement, requiring recipients to match funds from nonstate sources, which underscores a collaborative effort in improving local fair facilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears generally favorable among legislators and stakeholders involved, as evidenced by the vote count during the second reading in the House, where 79 members voted in favor while only 12 opposed. Supporters argue that such financial backing is crucial for the resilience and adaptation of county fairs, especially in a post-pandemic environment. However, there may be concerns regarding the sustainability of funding and the equitable distribution of grants among counties.

Contention

While HB 1591 has garnered significant support, some contention may arise regarding the allocation of funds and the competitive nature of the grant application process. Opponents could raise concerns about smaller counties having less capacity to meet the matching funds requirement or secure funding for their projects. Additionally, the bill's emergency declaration points to an urgent need for action, indicating potential time constraints that could affect the thoroughness of the implementation process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 HB1018

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.

ND SB2183

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the adjutant general for snow removal grants; to provide for a report; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1010

AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of the council on the arts; to provide for transfers; to provide for a report; to provide an exemption; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1199

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of career and technical education for the statewide area and career center initiative grant program; to authorize a Bank of North Dakota line of credit; to provide an exemption; to provide for a transfer; and to declare an emergency.

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 SB2025

AN ACT to provide an appropriation for defraying the expenses of various state departments and institutions; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1307

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the attorney general for a back the blue grant program; and to provide for a report.

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.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.