The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 97A.056, to establish new requirements for hiring the executive director of the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council. It introduces a new subdivision, Subd. 2a, which outlines the process for appointing nonpartisan staff and consultants to support the council's functions. The council will have final approval authority for hiring the executive director, and an interview panel composed of council members, including equal representation from the two largest political parties, will be responsible for recommending candidates. If the panel cannot reach a unanimous decision, it must present multiple candidates to the full council for consideration.

Additionally, the bill retains the provision that allows up to one percent of the funds appropriated to be used for administrative expenses and for compensating council members. The previous language regarding the hiring process and administrative expenses has been deleted, streamlining the council's authority and clarifying the hiring process for the executive director.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97A.056