OK SB1444

Re-creates the Oklahoma Abstractors Board to continue until July 1, 2019, with modifications effective July 1, 2016, and authorizes the Board to administer and enforce the Oklahoma Abstractors Act.

Reduces board membership from 6 to 4 members who are abstractors, increases real estate brokers from 1 to 2 members, increases attorneys from 1 to 2 members, and maintains 1 bank officer member, for a total of 9 members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

Modifies initial appointment terms so members from Districts 1 and 3 serve until July 1, 2017; Districts 2 and 4 until July 1, 2018; real estate brokers and attorneys until July 1, 2019; and the bank officer until July 1, 2019, with all subsequent members serving four-year terms.

Establishes removal procedures allowing the Governor to remove members for inefficiency, neglect of duty, malfeasance, loss of qualifications, felony conviction, medical incapacity, or excessive absences, with due process through Administrative Procedures Act hearings.

Authorizes the Board to retain legal counsel for advisement and other necessary operations.