AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 24-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to designating the bridge on United States highway 81 as the Specialist 4 David LaTraille Vietnam bridge; to provide a continuing appropriation; and to declare an emergency.
Summary
HB 1091 designates the bridge on United States Highway 81 in Grafton, located between Park Street and Cashel Street, as the “Specialist 4 David LaTraille Vietnam bridge.” The bill directs the North Dakota Department of Transportation to place signage on the bridge recognizing that name.
The bill also allows the department to accept donated signs or funds for the signage, and it creates a continuing appropriation so any donated money can be used without additional legislative action. It is declared an emergency measure, meaning it takes effect immediately upon passage rather than waiting for the normal effective date.
Impact
This bill adds a new section to Chapter 24-01 of the North Dakota Century Code governing highway and bridge naming. Its practical effect is limited to the designation and signage for one bridge in Grafton, but it also authorizes the department to receive and use donations on a continuing basis for that purpose. The bill does not change broader transportation policy or impose new regulatory duties beyond the memorial naming and sign placement.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been broadly supported and noncontroversial. It passed the House and Senate with overwhelming margins and no recorded opposition in the final votes, suggesting strong bipartisan agreement. The emergency clause and quick passage indicate a shared desire to honor Specialist 4 David LaTraille promptly.
Contention
There is little evidence of substantive contention around HB 1091. No committee transcript was provided, and the recorded votes show near-unanimous support. Any potential point of discussion would likely have been limited to the use of a continuing appropriation for donated funds and the appropriateness of memorial highway naming, but the vote history suggests these issues did not generate meaningful opposition.