SB 655 Summary

• Expands scenic river designation on the Illinois River by changing the boundary from "confluence of the Barren Fork Creek" to the "667-foot elevation level of Tenkiller Ferry Lake" in Cherokee, Adair, and Delaware Counties.

• Recreates the Scenic Rivers Commission for the Illinois River and Flint Creek Scenic River Areas, continuing until July 1, 2017, subject to Oklahoma's Sunset Law.

• Commission consists of 7-15 members including 3 gubernatorial appointees, 2 Senate appointees, 2 House appointees, and additional elected representatives from registered voters and property owners within 660 feet of the designated rivers.

• Grants the Commission broad powers including authority to establish planning standards, manage public access, review local government actions, issue permits, hire legal counsel, and employ peace officers in the scenic river area.

• Effective date is November 1, 2015.