HI HR89

Requests the State Auditor to conduct a comprehensive performance audit of all programs within the State Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Audit scope includes assessment of staffing and resource adequacy, timeliness of project reviews against established rule timeframes, and current review practices including categorical exemptions and burial site discovery processes.

Requires evaluation of record retention methodologies, monitoring protocols standardization, cultural impact assessment guidance, and actions taken to address existing project review backlogs.

Requests recommended improvements and proposed legislation to update the State Historic Preservation Division's mission and organization while balancing cultural and historic preservation with the state's land development needs.

Auditor must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2024 Regular Session convenes.