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HB 1577

AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 23.1-07 and a new subsection to section 23.1-07-06 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to a wastewater infrastructure grant program and the duties of the department of environmental quality; to authorize a Bank of North Dakota line of credit; to provide an appropriation; to provide for a legislative management study; and to declare an emergency.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26) Introduced by Keith Kempenich and 7 co-sponsors

North Dakota creates a wastewater infrastructure grant program with Bank of North Dakota financing to help municipalities upgrade systems, effective immediately upon gubernatorial signature.

Filed with Secretary Of State 05/02
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Bill Summary · HB 1577

Legislative bill overview

HB 1577 establishes a wastewater infrastructure grant program in North Dakota administered by the Department of Environmental Quality and authorizes a Bank of North Dakota line of credit to fund it. The bill also directs a legislative management study on related matters and includes emergency provisions allowing immediate implementation.

Why is this important

Wastewater infrastructure is critical for public health, environmental protection, and economic development, particularly in rural communities where funding gaps are common. This program addresses aging or inadequate systems that pose health risks and may limit growth, while the Bank of North Dakota financing mechanism provides a dedicated funding source for municipalities.

Potential points of contention

  • Appropriation and funding details: The bill authorizes a line of credit but specific funding amounts, repayment terms, and whether grants are forgivable or must be repaid are not detailed in this summary, raising questions about long-term fiscal impact
  • Geographic equity: Grant distribution methodology is unclear—rural vs. urban allocation, population-based formulas, or needs-based criteria could significantly affect which communities benefit
  • Emergency declaration justification: The emergency provision allows immediate implementation without standard waiting periods, which may bypass typical oversight and public comment processes on implementation rules

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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