18.6-01-01-01. Definitions.

For purposes of this article:

1. "Actual cost of the mediator" means fees associated with preparing and conducting mediation.

2. "Administrator" means the administrator of the North Dakota mediation service.

3. "Board" means the credit review board, or its authorized agent when applicable.

4. "Commissioner" means the North Dakota agriculture commissioner or the North Dakota agriculture commissioner's designee or representative.

5. "Mediation" means a process in which a mediator facilitates communication and negotiation between parties to assist them in reaching a voluntary agreement regarding their dispute.

6. "Party" is a person who participates in mediation and whose agreement is necessary to resolve a dispute and who is: a. A farmer, creditor of a farmer, or a person dealing with a farmer. b. Eligible for mediation with an agency of the United States department of agriculture. c. A landowner. d. An owner, lessee, or lessor of mineral interests. e. A person involved in a dispute related to easements for oil- and gas-related pipelines and associated facilities.

7. "Mediator" means an individual who conducts mediation.

8. "Nonparty participant" means a person, other than a party or mediator, who participates in mediation.

9. "Service" means the North Dakota mediation service.

10. "Staff" means a person hired by the commissioner to assist in administering the service or to assist the credit review board in its responsibilities and duties.

History: Effective October 1, 2016.

General Authority: NDCC 6-09.10-09, 28-32-02.1

Law Implemented: NDCC 6-09.10-02.1, 6-09.10-03, 6-09.10-04