DE SB153

Creates the Delaware Native Species Commission within DNREC to reverse the decline and extinction of local plant and animal species and implement recommendations from the Statewide Ecological Extinction Task Force final report issued December 1, 2017.

Commission consists of 15 members: 5 ex-officio members (DNREC Secretary, Agriculture Secretary, and 3 county administrators) and 10 appointed members (5 from environmental organizations/higher education and 5 from commercial stakeholder interests including land development, farming, and business).

Appointed members serve staggered 3-year terms and receive no compensation except reimbursement for reasonable mileage and tolls; members missing 3 successive meetings without just cause may have their position declared vacant.

Commission shall submit annual reports by December 31 each year to the Governor and General Assembly detailing activities, goals, and proposals for legislation or administrative action needed to implement Task Force recommendations.

Authorizes Commission to establish subcommittees, engage with organizations, conduct research, and make advisory recommendations; Commission's authority expires 10 years after enactment unless extended by the General Assembly.