Gov. Jack Dalrymple yesterday eased public bidding requirements and Sunday business hours to support the emergency needs of communities that are preparing for major flooding.
Dalrymple issued an executive order that relaxes time limits, publication requirements and other bid requirements to help cities and counties expedite the contracting of goods and services needed to safeguard people and property from flooding.
In the executive order, Dalrymple also allows businesses to open prior to 12 p.m. on Sundays so they can provide the public with goods and services essential to flood-fighting efforts. Businesses that do not sell or rent products or services related to flood-fighting activities should remain closed on Sundays until noon.
The Governor's order is effective immediately and will remain in effect until July 31, 2011.
In April, the Governor issued an executive order waiving service hours and weight restrictions for commercial truck drivers who provide direct assistance for flood relief efforts. The order, which remains in effect for the duration of statewide flood emergency response efforts, was issued to allow for the expedited transportation of equipment and other goods essential to flood-fighting efforts. All road safety and vehicle compliance regulations still apply and will be fully enforced. Motor carriers, while under this order, are not authorized to allow fatigued drivers to operate a motor vehicle.