HB 1979 Summary

• Creates the "Oklahoma Freedom Trail Act" to recognize, document, and mark sites in Oklahoma associated with African-American history and the struggle for freedom.

• Designates the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department as the responsible entity for planning and administering the trail, with input from the Oklahoma Historical Society, Oklahoma Film and Music Commission, and Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

• Allows trail sites to be marked with permanent highway markers or additions to existing highway signs, which can be installed during normal maintenance procedures.

• Implementation is contingent on the Tourism and Recreation Department securing private donations, contributions, grants, or other non-state funding sources.

• Takes effect November 1, 2011.