Scored 6/10 on whether it helps or hurts everyday people.
The Penalty Added Bill
Penalty added for misusing small underground water systems
Smaller subsurface water management systems; and to provide a penalty.
Mixed: some good, some bad ·
If passed, the bill would let the state fine people who break rules on small underground water systems, protecting water supplies.
Our take
What we think, in plain words.
If the bill passes, farmers may have to follow tighter rules for their small underground water setups. That could cost them time and money. But the penalty also helps keep the water clean for all. The bill is still early, so people can speak up now.
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The facts
What the bill actually says, no spin.
- Bill amends section 61-32-03.3 of the North Dakota Century Code.
- It focuses on smaller subsurface water management systems.
- It adds a penalty for violations of the water rules.
- It was introduced by Senators Kathy Hogan, Richard Marcellais, and Rep. Jayme Davis.
How they voted
The actual floor vote, and who broke from their own party.
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- Joshua Boschee (D): voted against it, crossing most Democrats
- Jeffery Magrum (R): voted for it, crossing most Republicans
- Mike Wobbema (R): voted for it, crossing most Republicans
In the news
Scanning the news for this bill…
Headlines gathered from across the news, starting points to explore, not endorsements. Always read the official text before acting.
Sources
Read it yourself: the official bill and records.
This bill is in the North Dakota Bill Book 2026
The best and worst North Dakota bills of 2026, one page each — our take on the left, the bill on the right, and room for your notes. No email needed.
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