Oklahomans, while proudly independent, are nevertheless quick to come to the aid of our neighbors in times of need, regardless of whether that need arises from devastating storms, brutal acts of domestic terrorism, poverty, or social isolation. In fact, the belief in a shared responsibility to address our local community's needs is often referred to as the "Oklahoma Standard," and it is shouldered each day by the many volunteers who serve in faith-based and other philanthropic organizations throughout our State. Accordingly, I, Mary Fallin, Governor of the State of Oklahoma, by the authority vested in me pursuant to Sections 1 and 2 of Article VI of the Oklahoma Constitution, hereby amend Executive Order 1996-08, which established the Oklahoma Community Service Commission (Commission) to oversee administration of our State's participation in the National Community Service Act of 1990 (Act), Pub. L. No. 101-610 (codified as amended at 42 U.S.C. §§ 12501-12682 (2009)). The Commission will continue to function as the State entity entrusted with developing and implementing a National Service plan that is eligible for federal funding, and will continue to support volunteerism in Oklahoma by helping to better coordinate, fund, and expand the public, private, and faith-based service initiatives that work closely with our State's citizen volunteers. However, the Commission shall adhere to the updated federal requirements as established in the amended Act, which include, among others, requirements pertaining to the composition and responsibilities of the Commission. See 42 U.S.C. § 12638 (2013). The Commission shall likewise comply with any subsequent amendments to the Act that impose affirmative obligations that condition the receipt of federal funding, immediately upon their becoming effective. The members of the Commission shall be appointed by, and serve at the pleasure of the Governor, in conformity with the Act. Members shall not be compensated for their services, but may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in the performance of their duties in the same manner as provided State employees by the State Travel Reimbursement Act. Any staffing and operating expenses of the Commission, as is deemed necessary and appropriate to ensure compliance with this Order, shall be met through a combination of federal and private funds. In addition, State agencies shall provide the Commission with reasonable administrative assistance as requested, so as to maximize Oklahoma's support of and coordination with public, private, and faith-based volunteer programs in solving our local communities' needs. The Commission shall prepare an annual progress report for submission to the Governor by December 31 of each year, beginning on December 31, 2015. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Oklahoma to be affixed at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, this 2nd day of March, 2015. BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA Mary Fallin Chris Benge Secretary of State
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