AR HB1167

Appropriates $5,244,467 to the Oil and Gas Commission for personal services and operating expenses for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016, including $2,069,864 for regular salaries and $100,000 for extra help.

Establishes a maximum of 44 regular employees for the Oil and Gas Commission, including positions such as Director ($113,383), Deputy Director ($103,648), petroleum engineers, geologists, inspectors, and administrative staff.

Appropriates $2,500,000 from the Abandoned and Orphaned Well Plugging Fund for well plugging program expenses.

Authorizes the Oil and Gas Commission to request transfer of up to $2,000,000 per year from the Oil and Gas Commission Fund to the Abandoned and Orphaned Well Plugging Fund, effective July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.

Declares an emergency effective July 1, 2015 to ensure continuous operation of the agency and provision of essential governmental programs.