A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact section 23.1-13-16 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to inspection fees; and to provide an expiration date.
SB2179 proposes amendments to section 23.1-13-16 of the North Dakota Century Code, specifically addressing inspection fees for motor vehicle fuels and special fuels. The bill establishes a fee of one-fortieth of one cent per gallon for gasoline, kerosene, tractor fuel, heating oil, and diesel fuel sold or used by licensed dealers. This fee is to be reported monthly to the tax commissioner and is to be deposited into the state's general fund, earmarked for the state fuel inspection program, subject to legislative appropriations. Additionally, the bill includes an expiration date, making it effective only until June 30, 2027.
If enacted, SB2179 would modify the existing framework for fuel inspection fees in North Dakota, potentially increasing state revenue allocated to the fuel inspection program. The bill's structure ensures that the funds collected are specifically used for the operational needs of the Department of Environmental Quality, which oversees fuel inspections. The expiration clause indicates that the fee structure would need to be revisited before the specified date, allowing for future legislative review and adjustments based on the program's effectiveness and funding needs.
The sentiment surrounding SB2179 appears to be mixed, with some support for the need to fund the fuel inspection program adequately, while others may have concerns about the additional financial burden on fuel dealers. The bill's failure in the last action indicates that it did not garner enough support to pass, reflecting potential opposition or lack of consensus among legislators regarding the fee structure or its implications.
Notable points of contention likely revolve around the imposition of new fees on fuel dealers, which some may argue could lead to increased costs for consumers. Additionally, the bill's temporary nature may raise questions about the long-term sustainability of the funding for the inspection program. Stakeholders, including fuel dealers and environmental advocates, may hold differing views on the necessity and impact of the proposed fee.