Section 4.1-01-17 - Pipeline restoration and reclamation oversight program - Generally1. The commissioner shall establish a program providing technical assistance and support to surface owners and surface tenants on pipeline restoration and followup support to surface owners and surface tenants on pipeline reclamation.2. The commissioner may contract for ombudsmen to be a resource for technical assistance and followup on pipeline issues. The ombudsmen may not investigate or assist with any pipeline installed before January 1, 2006, or regulated by the public service commission under title 49, and may not assist in easement negotiations.3. The program may provide technical education, support, and outreach on pipeline-related matters in coordination with other entities.4. The commissioner may contract with local individuals, deemed trustworthy by the surface owners and surface tenants, to be ombudsmen. The commissioner is not subject to the provisions of chapter 54-44.4 when contracting for the services of ombudsmen.5. The names of surface owners and surface tenants who receive assistance under the program are closed records as defined in section 44-04-17.1.Amended by S.L. 2021 , ch. 9( HB 1009 ), § 14, eff. 7/1/2021.Added by S.L. 2017 , ch. 61( SB 2026 ), § 1, eff. 7/1/2017.