ND HB1409

Increases North Dakota outdoor heritage fund allocation from 4% to 8% of oil and gas gross production tax revenue, with annual caps increasing from $15 million to $20 million and biennial caps from $30 million to $40 million.

Expands outdoor heritage fund purposes to include enhancing conservation practices, providing sportsmen access to lands, improving water quality and soil conditions, developing wildlife habitat, and conserving natural areas for recreation.

Prohibits fund usage for litigation, lobbying, activities interfering with surface mining or energy operations, land acquisition exceeding 20 years, and maintenance costs.

Modifies outdoor heritage advisory board membership to four members from the conservation community at large rather than requiring specific representation from Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever.

Allows commission to approve staffing and consultant expenditures up to 5% of grants exceeding $250,000 and up to 10% of grants at or below $250,000, and permits state general fund matching funds if authorized by legislative assembly.