HB 1193-S - DIGEST
(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

Provides that the task force's review and recommendations shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) The effectiveness and accountability of the current fish and wildlife commission model;

(2) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commission should retain the power to hire and terminate the director;

(3) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commissioner appointment process is effective and whether or not commissioners should be limited to no more than two consecutive terms in office;

(4) Whether or not a citizens' ombuds function should be added to the fish and wildlife commission model and if so, what would the role of the ombuds be;

(5) Whether or not it is necessary to restructure the policy authority of the fish and wildlife commission;

(6) Possible alternative models for fish and wildlife commission structures;

(7) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commission's role should be limited to that of an advisory body;

(8) Possible alternatives for appointment and confirmation of fish and wildlife commission members;

(9) Whether or not the fish and wildlife commission's effectiveness and accountability would be improved with the addition of either policy staff or fiscal staff, or both;

(10) Whether or not the role of regulating recreational fishing and hunting policy and season setting should be separated from commercial activities, regulatory role/functions, land management, and other departmental administrative functions;

(11) The effectiveness and responsiveness to the public, the office of the governor, and the legislature of the fish and wildlife commission and department of fish and wildlife management structure; and

(12) Whether or not the existing geographic, consultation, and expertise mandates for fish and wildlife commission appointments meet the needs of the state or whether or not the fish and wildlife commission should be restructured.

Requires the task force to report its findings and recommendations to the governor, the fish and wildlife commission, the director of fish and wildlife, and the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1, 2007.