Bill > SB2157

This bill, known as the Southeast Scenic Rivers Act, establishes the Southeast Scenic Rivers Commission to preserve and manage designated scenic rivers in Oklahoma, specifically the Glover, Kiamichi, Little, and Mountain Fork Rivers, due to their unique natural beauty and recreational value. The Commission, an agency of the state, will be funded through appropriations to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission and will consist of eleven members appointed by various state officials, with specific representation from affected counties, conservation groups, academic institutions, and tribal communities. The Commission is empowered to create management plans, set standards for adjacent land use to protect scenic values, appoint an administrator, cooperate with other government agencies, accept gifts and grants, and take legal action to enforce its regulations, all while operating under the Oklahoma Open Meeting and Open Records Acts. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to require the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission to cooperate with the newly created Southeast Scenic Rivers Commission. This act will become effective on November 1, 2026.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb2157&Session=2600