ND HB1040

Removes the requirement for applicants to first apply for and be denied cost-share assistance from the USDA Farm Service Agency before seeking state drought disaster livestock water assistance

Allows livestock producers with drought-caused water supply problems to apply directly to the state program without federal denial documentation

Maintains eligibility for water supply projects commenced after application submission but before department approval

Confirms projects located on Indian land remain eligible for the drought disaster livestock water assistance program

Passed with near-unanimous support: House 91-0, Senate 46-1