ND HB1074

Replaces the term "informational hearing" with "public hearing" throughout North Dakota water permit application procedures in sections 61-04-01.1, 61-04-05, and 61-04-05.1 of the Century Code.

Defines "public hearing" as an administrative proceeding (not adjudicative) that allows all interested persons to present oral or written comments on water permit applications.

Requires the Department of Water Resources to hold public hearings locally in the county seat if two or more municipal or public use permitholders request a local hearing for a proposed water appropriation.

Maintains existing procedures for written comments (due within 30 days of first published notice), party of record status for commenters, and subsequent opportunities to request adjudicative proceedings.

Passed the House with a vote of 93-0-1 and the Senate with a vote of 47-0-0.