Governor of Oklahoma signs modified Indian liaison bill into law

Wednesday, May 30, 2012  

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin (R) signed House Bill 2563 into law on Tuesday.

The bill modifies the requirements for the state's new American Indian liaison position. The liaison has to be a member of a federally recognized tribe from Oklahoma but does not have to possess one-fourth Indian blood.

The bill also gives Fallin more time to fill the post. She has until December 1 to find a liaison.

The House had approved a bill to elevate the liaison to the Cabinet level. But that change was removed in the version that Fallin signed into law.

“Oklahoma’s tribes make a unique and valuable contribution to Oklahoma’s economy and culture. I look forward to having the Native American liaison join our administration. I know it will further enhance the partnership and communication between the governor’s office and Oklahoma’s tribes," Fallin said in a press release.

Get the Story:
Governor signs changes to tribal liaison qualifications into law (The Daily Ardmoreite 5/29)

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Oklahoma House puts an end to Indian Affairs Commission (5/19)