North Dakota’s rural roads are wearing down, and lawmakers are debating how to pay for repairs. The House passed a 3% gas tax increase to create a new road fund, directing most of the money to counties without oil revenue. Supporters say heavier farm traffic has strained infrastructure, while opponents argue existing funds should cover the cost. Electric vehicle fees would also rise under the plan. With a Senate vote ahead, the debate isn’t over—but for rural communities, the need for repairs is clear. Grant Coursey with the Bismarck Tribune has the full story. Bill details can be found below.
HB 1382
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 54-27 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the creation of the city, county, and township road fund; to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 39-04-19.2, section 54-27-19, subsection 1 of section 57-43.1-02, and subsection 1 of section 57-43.2-02 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle road use fee, the tax imposed on motor vehicle and special fuels, and the highway tax distribution fund; and to provide an effective date.
House Sponsors: Hagert (R, District 20), Brandenburg (R, District 28), Headland (R, District 29), Nelson (R, District 14), Novak (R, District 33), Stemen (R, District 27), Wagner (R, District 45), Weisz (R, District 14),
Senate Sponsors: Klein (R, District 14), Myrdal (R, District 19), Wanzek (R, District 29), Weber (R, District 22),
