SB 1959 Summary

• Creates the "Rural Tourism Protection Act" requiring the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department to provide 60 days' written notice to county and municipal governments before making changes to state parks, parkland, or public recreation facilities.

• Defines "change in services" as either a 50% or greater reduction in hours of operation or services, or complete closure of any facility under the department's jurisdiction and control.

• Requires notice be sent to applicable county commissioners and municipal mayors detailing the specific proposed service changes.

• Exempts the notification requirement in cases of natural disasters and acts of nature, including severe drought, flooding, wildfires, tornadoes, and earthquakes.

• Effective November 1, 2014.