Senate Bill 1300 Summary

• Creates a director position for the Department of Parks and Recreation appointed by the governor, with authority to hire staff, set compensation, and adopt a merit system for department employees.

• Transfers all powers and duties from the Park and Recreation Board to the Department of Parks and Recreation, except as otherwise specified in the act.

• Converts the Park and Recreation Board into a six-member Park and Recreation Advisory Board appointed by the governor with senate consent, with members representing six geographic districts and serving six-year staggered terms.

• Makes advisory board recommendations non-binding on the department, which retains full authority over park rules, expenditures, facility operations, fees, and recreational programs.

• Repeals former Section 67-4222 eliminating specified board powers and duties that are now consolidated under the department's direct authority.