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House passes bill letting emergency commission use disaster relief fund at start of federally declared disasters
Summary
House Bill 1073 passed 73-20. The bill authorizes the state emergency commission and the Department of Emergency Services to access the state's disaster relief fund at the start of a federally declared disaster to pay the state's cost share, reducing reliance on Bank of North Dakota loans and a later deficiency bill.
The North Dakota House passed House Bill 1073 on final consideration by a vote of 73-20. The bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code to allow the State Emergency Commission and the Department of Emergency Services to use the state disaster relief fund at the start of a federally declared disaster to pay the state's cost share, rather than requiring the adjutant general to seek a Bank of North Dakota loan and then a later deficiency appropriation to repay that loan.
The bill’s sponsor in committee, Representative Schauer, and Representative Brown, who presented the measure, told members the federal government typically pays roughly 75% of eligible disaster costs, the state has commonly covered 10%, and local jurisdictions 15%. Representative Brown said the change would “create legislative authority for the emergency commission to allow access to the disaster relief fund… from the start of a declared disaster event,” removing the need to obtain a bank loan that requires repayment in a later legislative session.
Why it matters: proponents said the bill streamlines recovery funding, can save taxpayers money by avoiding interest on short-term loans, and allows faster state cost-share payments when federal declarations occur. Representative Kapanek asked whether the change links to only federally declared disasters or to state declarations as well; Representative Brown confirmed it requires a federal declaration.
Committee reporting and debate: The government and veterans affairs committee recommended a due-pass vote after review; the presenter and committee members emphasized efficiency and savings over the long term. Representative Kapanek raised concerns about removing legislative oversight for replenishing the fund and said he may oppose the bill on that basis; that concern was noted in floor discussion.
Vote and disposition: The clerk recorded a final roll-call vote of 73 yeas and 20 nays; House Bill 1073 was declared passed.
Ending: The bill authorizes the emergency commission to access the disaster relief fund at the outset of federally declared disasters; committee and floor remarks indicate the loan authority from Bank of North Dakota remains available if the fund balance is insufficient.
