The bill modifies the operations of the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) by extending the expiration date of certain statutes from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2045. It allows for the extension of timelines for conducting studies and removes barriers to continuing the sustainable harvest study. Key amendments include the requirement for the legislative auditor to develop criteria ensuring that resources allocated for program reviews are proportionate to the size and complexity of the program budget. Additionally, the bill mandates that the JLARC oversee an independent review of the methodologies and data used in the sustainable harvest calculation, ensuring that a completed review is submitted to the Board of Natural Resources and the legislature before any harvest level is approved.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new considerations for the JLARC's performance audit work plan, including whether legislative changes necessitate delaying reviews until sufficient data is available. It also emphasizes the importance of regular updates to the forest inventory and the involvement of third-party contractors in reviewing forest growth and yield modeling. The overall aim of the bill is to enhance oversight and accountability in the management of state resources related to forestry and environmental sustainability.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.131.900, 43.131.051, 76.04.516, 79.10.320
Bill as Passed Legislature: 43.131.900, 43.131.051, 76.04.516, 79.10.320
Session Law: 43.131.900, 43.131.051, 76.04.516, 79.10.320