North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota House Bill HB1214

Introduced
1/9/23  
Refer
1/9/23  
Report Pass
1/16/23  
Engrossed
1/19/23  
Refer
2/13/23  
Report Pass
3/7/23  
Enrolled
3/10/23  

Caption

Department of commerce rural growth incentive program.

Impact

The repeal of the rural growth incentive program may have significant implications for economic development strategies in rural North Dakota. Proponents of the bill suggest that discontinuing the program could free up resources for other forms of economic support that may be more effective in addressing the challenges faced by rural communities. However, the removal of the program has raised concerns among some stakeholders about the potential gap in support for rural areas that could struggle to attract or retain businesses without these incentives.

Summary

House Bill 1214 proposes the repeal of section 54-34.3-13 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertains to the Department of Commerce's rural growth incentive program. This bill aims to eliminate a specific program that was designed to promote growth in rural areas through financial incentives. The intention behind this repeal is to streamline legislation and potentially redirect funding to more impactful initiatives in the state. The bill reflects a broader legislative focus on evaluating the effectiveness and necessity of existing programs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1214 appears to be mixed. Supporters view the repeal as a step towards better resource allocation and effectiveness of state programs, arguing that the rural growth incentive program may not have been significantly impacting rural development as intended. Conversely, critics of the repeal fear that eliminating the program could undermine existing efforts to spur economic growth in less populated regions, suggesting that the state should instead consider reforming the program rather than removing it entirely.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 1214 is the debate over the effectiveness of incentive programs in rural areas. While supporters see the repeal as an opportunity to reassess and improve how the state supports economic development, opponents argue that it could leave rural communities vulnerable and without necessary resources. The discussions highlight the tension between wanting to streamline government programs and the need to ensure adequate support for rural development, showcasing the complexities of legislative decision-making in regards to regional economic policies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SB2228

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for a rural grocery store sustainability grant program.

ND SB2228

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for a rural grocery store sustainability grant program.

ND HB1524

Regional planning council grants from the department of commerce.

ND HB2541

Enacting the Kansas rural business growth program act, providing a premium tax credit to incentivize capital investment in rural areas and establishing a program to be administered by the secretary of commerce for the purpose of incentivizing such investment.

ND SB2342

A value-added milk processing facility incentive program; and to authorize a Bank of North Dakota line of credit.

ND SB2333

Ethanol production incentives; to provide a continuing appropriation; to provide for a transfer; and to provide for a report.

ND HB1174

Educational and community outreach programs established by the game and fish department.

ND HB1038

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for a state radar data pathfinder program; to provide for a report; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1038

AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of commerce for a state radar data pathfinder program; to provide for a report; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1332

A value-added agriculture facility incentive program; to provide for a transfer; to provide an expiration date; and to declare an emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.