SB337 Summary

• Creates the Creek War and War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission to commemorate the historical events and people of the Creek War and War of 1812 period in Alabama, including the Fort Mims Massacre, Battle of Horseshoe Bend, and defense of Mobile Bay.

• Commission consists of 29 members appointed from state agencies (Alabama Historical Commission, Tourism Department, Archives and History, Department of Indian Affairs, Education, and others), county commissions, city mayors, and various historical and cultural organizations, with members serving without compensation except for travel expenses.

• Commission powers include planning commemorative programs, developing educational materials and websites, creating a bicentennial trail map, producing exhibitions and teaching materials, coordinating with other states and federal agencies, and making grants to organizations to support commemoration activities.

• Commission required to hold initial meeting within 150 days of enactment and at least three meetings per year during 2010-2011, then at least two meetings per year during 2012-2015; commission terminates September 30, 2015, after submitting final report with accounting of funds and disposition of historical items acquired.

• Commission exempt from competitive bidding requirements, open meetings laws, public records requirements, and administrative procedure rules; members and employees immune from civil liability except for negligence, wantonness, recklessness, or deliberate misconduct.