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Senate panel backs bill to streamline PSC review of DOT rail grant applications
Summary
The Senate Transportation Committee voted to give a due-pass recommendation to Senate Bill 2068, which removes a requirement that the North Dakota Department of Transportation obtain Public Service Commission approval before applying for certain rail grants while keeping the PSC involved in an advisory role.
The Senate Transportation Committee voted to give Senate Bill 2068 a due-pass recommendation after hearing testimony that the measure would streamline state processes for rail grants and grade‑crossing projects.
The bill would remove a statutory requirement that the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) obtain formal approval from the Public Service Commission (PSC) before applying for rail grants, while preserving PSC participation in planning and advisory forums. "The NDDOT is well positioned to understand the needs of the state when it comes to railroad grade crossings and rail transportation enhancements," said Conrad Crockford, compliance division director for the Public Service Commission, during his testimony.
Nut graf: Supporters told the committee the change is intended to reduce administrative delay without eliminating PSC oversight. The PSC would continue to participate through its role on the NDDOT Freight Advisory Committee, monthly planning meetings and related cooperative initiatives.
Committee members asked about safety and whether removing the formal approval step would reduce the PSC's role in enforcement. Crockford said the PSC's safety and regulatory functions would continue, and that the agency expects to remain engaged through regular planning and advisory processes rather than by approving individual grant applications.
Crockford noted the NDDOT secured a $30,000,000 Federal Railroad Administration grant in 2023 for the Demers Avenue/42nd Street grade separation in Grand Forks as an example of recent federal funding work. Committee members discussed the practical effect of the proposed change and whether it merely formalizes coordination that already occurs through joint meetings.
Motion and vote: Senator Jerry Klein moved a due-pass recommendation on Senate Bill 2068; Senator Claire Cory seconded. The roll call included recorded 'aye' votes from Senator Romo, Senator Klein, Senator Bob Paulson, Chairman Dave Clemens, Vice Chair Claire Cory and Senator Hogan. The committee announced a due-pass recommendation.
The bill now moves forward with a committee recommendation. Members said they expect the PSC and DOT to continue close cooperation on rail safety and planning even if the statutory approval step is removed.
