In a recent meeting of the North Dakota House Appropriations Committee, members discussed the ongoing funding for litigation related to lignite coal issues, highlighting the state's commitment to addressing environmental concerns. The committee reviewed the allocation of $3 million from the general fund in the previous biennium, which has primarily been directed towards legal battles concerning Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, including mercury and air toxins, regional haze, and greenhouse gas emissions.

As of now, approximately $2.7 million of the initial funding has been utilized, with expectations that the remaining balance will be spent before the end of the biennium. In light of the continuing legal challenges, the committee is considering an additional request for $3 million in one-time funding to sustain these efforts. The discussions emphasized that litigation is unlikely to decrease, especially with potential new lawsuits on the horizon.

Committee members expressed a desire for updates on specific cases, particularly the EPA mercury and air toxins lawsuit, which has consumed a significant portion of the funding. The Attorney General's office has offered to provide further briefings on the status of these cases, indicating a proactive approach to keeping lawmakers informed.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of these legal efforts, with representatives acknowledging the ongoing environmental challenges and the potential for future litigation stemming from new regulations. The discussions underscored the importance of continued funding to navigate the complex landscape of environmental law and its impact on the lignite industry in North Dakota.

As the committee moves forward, the request for additional funding will be a critical point of consideration, reflecting the state's ongoing commitment to addressing environmental issues while balancing the interests of the lignite industry. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape North Dakota's approach to environmental litigation in the coming years.