HB 1561 Summary

• Creates a new Native American Affairs cabinet area consisting of executive agencies, boards, commissions and institutions related to Native American issues and state-tribal relations.

• Designates the Oklahoma Native American Liaison as the Secretary of Native American Affairs with a maximum annual salary of $65,000.

• Requires the Native American Liaison appointee to be a member or citizen of a federally recognized American Indian tribe with primary headquarters in Oklahoma and have valid proof of membership.

• Establishes the Native American Liaison's responsibilities including monitoring compacts with tribes, coordinating state agency consultation with tribal governments, and submitting annual reports to the Governor and Legislature.

• Declares an emergency, making the act effective immediately upon passage and approval.