The North Dakota Legislature's conference committee convened on May 2, 2025, to discuss House Bill 1369, which focuses on the coal development trust fund and its implications for local Air Force bases. The meeting, led by Chairman Navey, highlighted significant amendments aimed at adjusting loan structures for projects associated with these military installations.

One of the key discussions centered on the establishment of a co-development loan fund, which will provide loans at a 2% interest rate for amounts up to $20 million specifically for Air Force bases. This initiative is not a revolving loan, meaning the funds will need to be repaid to the coal development fund over a 20-year period. The committee also made adjustments to the tiered limits for loan amounts, reducing the maximum loan for projects under $75 million from $30 million to $20 million, and from $15 million to $10 million for smaller projects.

Senator Scheibe emphasized that these changes are designed to streamline funding processes and ensure that available resources are effectively utilized. The committee noted that the current balance of the coal development fund stands at approximately $49 million, indicating a robust pool of resources for future projects.

In addition to the loan adjustments, the committee discussed the effective dates and emergency clauses related to the bill, ensuring that the amendments align with existing legislation concerning Air Force bases in both Grand Forks and Minot.

After thorough deliberation, the committee unanimously passed the amendments and moved forward with the bill, reflecting a collaborative effort to support military infrastructure while managing state resources responsibly. The passage of House Bill 1369 is seen as a significant step in enhancing the operational capabilities of North Dakota's Air Force bases, ultimately benefiting the local economy and community.