Senate Bill 205 Summary

• Creates the Task Force on Merit Protection, effective until December 31, 2018, to study the feasibility of transferring Merit Protection Commission oversight to the Administrative Office of the Courts.

• Task force must submit findings and recommendations by November 1, 2018, including analysis of transfer effects, modification recommendations for Commission powers and duties, and necessary statutory changes to the Merit System and Whistleblower Act.

• Task force comprises 13 members: Administrative Director of Courts, Merit Protection Commission Chair and Executive Director, Oklahoma Public Employees Association Executive Director, three Governor-appointed members, three Senate-appointed members, and three House-appointed members; Governor selects the chair.

• Requires seven members for a quorum to approve final actions; meetings subject to Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; members receive no compensation but travel reimbursement per applicable state law.

• Staff support provided by Governor's office, Senate, and House of Representatives.