HB 53 -- Senior Environmental Corps

Co-Sponsors:  Scheve, McClelland

This bill establishes a Senior Environmental Corps to provide
opportunities for volunteers at least 55 years old to work on
projects related to natural and recreational resources.  The
Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will establish and provide
staff support for a coordinating council to select and monitor
corps projects and to develop policies, project standards, and
recruitment and training procedures.  The council will include
members appointed by DNR, the Department of Conservation, and
the Department of Economic Development.

DNR may seek grants, contributions, and cooperative agreements
with federal, state, and local agencies for corps projects.  All
work must be performed in accordance with a master agreement
approved by the council and the Attorney General.  The agreement
will describe work duties, required training, and expense
reimbursement and other benefits.  Volunteers cannot be used to
displace current employees.