The bill modifies the joint legislative audit and review committee's studies by extending the sunset date for certain provisions 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 joint legislative audit and review committee oversee an independent review of the methodologies and data used in the sustainable harvest calculation, ensuring that a completed report is submitted to the board of natural resources and the legislature before any harvest level is approved.

Further amendments to the performance audit work plan process include new considerations for determining whether a program warrants continued oversight, such as the impact of legislative changes on the timing of reviews and the need for additional data. The bill also emphasizes the importance of including recommendations for adjustments to funding mechanisms and requires regular updates to the forest inventory to support sustainable forest management practices. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the effectiveness and accountability of legislative audits and reviews related to forest management and other programs.

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