Failed House – Second Reading
North Dakota : 2025-2026 Regular Session : BILL SB2106
Weather modification; and to provide a penalty.
Sponsor: Sen Todd Beard
Bill Details
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new section to chapter 61-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to weather modification operations in the state; to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 37-17.1-11, and sections 58-03-07, 61-02.1-02.1, and 61-16.1-09 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to weather modification; to repeal section 37-17.1-15 and chapter 61-04.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to weather modification; and to provide a penalty.
Bill summary (AI generated)
The bill titled "Weather modification; and to provide a penalty" seeks to amend the North Dakota Century Code concerning weather modification operations. It introduces a new section that makes it a class B misdemeanor for any individual to perform or contract for weather modification activities within the state. Key provisions of the bill include: 1. **Definition of Weather Modification**: The bill defines "weather modification" as the control, alteration, or amelioration of weather elements, which can include changes to natural precipitation processes, hail suppression, and modifications of other weather phenomena such as clouds, temperature, and wind. 2. **Prohibition of Weather Modification**: Individuals are explicitly prohibited from engaging in any activities that modify weather, including artificial methods for changing precipitation. 3. **Repeal of Existing Laws**: The bill also includes the repeal of section 37-17.1-15 and chapter 61-04.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, which previously regulated weather modification operations. 4. **Penalties**: Violating the prohibition against weather modification results in a class B misdemeanor charge. The legislative changes aim to tighten regulations on weather modification in North Dakota and establish clear restrictions and penalties related to such activities.
History
The bill was first introduced in January 2025 and referred to the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Following a committee hearing, it was reported back with a recommendation to pass, but during the second reading in February 2025, the bill failed to pass in the legislative assembly. With this outcome, the bill is no longer active, meaning it will not proceed any further in the legislative process unless it is reintroduced in the future.
- Tue 07 Jan 2025 Introduced, first reading, referred to Energy and Natural Resources
- Thu 30 Jan 2025 Committee Hearing 02:00 (Energy and Natural Resources)
- Thu 06 Feb 2025 Reported back, do pass, place on calendar 4 2 1
- Fri 07 Feb 2025 Second reading, failed to pass, yeas 18 nays 29