The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating the structure and responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources and its governing commission. It establishes that the department has the powers and duties as granted by law, and it creates a commission composed of seven members, with no more than four from the same political party. The governor will appoint these members with the advice and consent of the senate, ensuring that at least one member has relevant training and experience in natural resources management. The term for each member is set at four years, and the commission is required to meet regularly, conduct public meetings, and maintain an archive of past meetings.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the commission's public meetings, including live video conferencing and making past meetings available online. It clarifies the roles of the director and deputy directors, stating that the director serves at the pleasure of the commission and can delegate authority as needed. The compensation for employees and the commission members' expenses will be managed similarly to other state officers, and the bill mandates that all members take an oath of office as prescribed by the state constitution.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 324.501