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SCS/SB 1015 - This act revises provisions relating to state parks. This act prohibits the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) from entering into or renewing a contract for a period exceeding 10 years unless the Director determines the extended contract period is necessary to allow the contractor to make substantial improvements to the site and the improvements are of sufficient value to necessitate the longer contract.

The Arrow Rock State Historic Site Endowment Fund is created. The initial deposit in the fund will be the bequest in the amount of $21,965.92 from the Bill and Cora Lee Miller estate. The Arrow Rock State Historic Site Endowment Fund may only be used for the enhancement of Arrow Rock State Historic Site's public interpretive programs. The state treasurer may invest the monies in the fund in a manner as provided by law. Until 2100, DNR may annually only expend one-half the interest earned by the fund. Thereafter, all of the interest earned by the preceding year may be expended. Funds may only be expended upon appropriation. Any funds appropriated but not spent will revert back to the fund.

DNR is given authority to enter into agreements with private, not-for-profit organizations organized solely to further the interpretive, educational, and maintenance functions at the state parks. Proceeds from sales of publications and materials by these organizations shall be retained by the organization for use in furthering their functions.

SARAH MORROW