Senate Bill 2037 Summary

• Creates chapter 38-23 prohibiting placement, storage, exploration, testing, or disposal of high-level radioactive waste within North Dakota's borders, with exceptions if superseded by federal law.

• Establishes the Industrial Commission's authority to regulate high-level radioactive waste through the state geologist, including issuing permits, requiring bonds, collecting fees (minimum $1 million annually for facility permits), and issuing notices of disapproval when the legislature is not in session.

• Creates chapter 38-24 establishing a permitting system for underground storage and retrieval facilities for nonhydrocarbons (compressed air, nitrogen, and other gases/liquids), with civil penalties up to $12,500 per violation per day and Class C felony penalties for falsifying records.

• Establishes a high-level radioactive waste advisory council consisting of state officials and appointed representatives from county, city, and agricultural interests to advise the commission on facility suitability and regulations.

• Repeals chapter 23-20.2 (prior nuclear waste disposal law) and amends criminal code definitions to reference the new regulatory chapters for illegal transportation or disposal of radioactive waste.