HB 1311 Summary

• Creates the Endangered Species and Economic Development Task Force to assist state agencies with compliance policy and technical assistance regarding endangered species laws until December 31, 2011.

• Task force shall assess economic impacts of endangered species regulations, help landowners implement cost-efficient mitigation strategies, and facilitate state and local government compliance efforts.

• Composed of 10 members including legislative representatives, state secretaries/directors (Commerce, Environment, Agriculture, Transportation, Energy), Corporation Commission chair, Wildlife Conservation Director, and Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts director.

• Secretary of Commerce and Tourism serves as chair; task force members receive no compensation and require a majority quorum to conduct business.

• Must provide reports on innovative endangered species programs and legislative recommendations to legislative leaders and governor by December 31, 2011.