MI Comp L § 324.99919 (2021)
2021 Michigan Compiled Laws|Chapter 324 - Natural Resources and Environmental Protection|E.R.O. No. 2009-31 - Executive Reorganization Order (324.99919 - 324.99919)|Section 324.99919 - Creation of Department of Natural Resources and Environment; Transfer of Commission of Natural Resources From Department of Natural Resources to Department of Natural Resources and Environment by Type II Transfer; Renaming Commission of Natural Resources to Natural Resources Commission; Designation of Chairperson by Governor; Creation of Michigan Trails Advisory Council; Transfer of Powers and Duties of Department of Natural Resources to Department of Natural Resources and Environment by Type II Transfer; Abolishment of Department of Natural Resources; Transfer of Certain Committees, Commissions, Authorities, and Councils From Department of Natural Resources to Department of Natural Resources and Environment; Transfer of Certain Powers and Duties of the Department of Environmental Quality to Department of Natural Resources and Environment by Type II Transfer; Abolishment of Department of Environmental Quality; Transfer of Office of Great Lakes From Department of Environmental Quality to Department of Natural Resources and Environment by Type I Transfer; Transfer of Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority, and Powers and Duties of Its Commissioner, From Department of Environmental Quality to Department of Natural Resources and Environment; Transfer of Site Review Board From Department of Environmental Quality to Department of Environmental Quality; Abolishment of Site Review Board; Transfer of Michigan Commission of Agriculture to Department of Agriculture by Type II Transfer; Appointment of Director of Department of Agriculture by Governor; Transfer of Agricultural Preservation Fund Board and Pesticide Advisory Committee to Department of Agriculture by Type III Transfer; Transfer of Powers and Duties of Office of Racing Commissioner From Department of Agriculture to Michigan Gaming Control Board; Membership of State Interagency Council on Spanish-Speaking Affairs.

 ***** 324.99919 THIS ORDER, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF SECTION IV.D., IS EFFECTIVE JANUARY 17, 2010; SECTION IV.D. IS EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 7, 2009 ***** 324.99919 Creation of department of natural resources and environment; transfer of commission of natural resources from department of natural resources to department of natural resources and environment by type II transfer; renaming commission of natural resources to natural resources commission; designation of chairperson by governor; creation of Michigan trails advisory council; transfer of powers and duties of department of natural resources to department of natural resources and environment by type II transfer; abolishment of department of natural resources; transfer of certain committees, commissions, authorities, and councils from department of natural resources to department of natural resources and environment; transfer of certain powers and duties of the department of environmental quality to department of natural resources and environment by type II transfer; abolishment of department of environmental quality; transfer of office of Great Lakes from department of environmental quality to department of natural resources and environment by type I transfer; transfer of low-level radioactive waste authority, and powers and duties of its commissioner, from department of environmental quality to department of natural resources and environment; transfer of site review board from department of environmental quality to department of environmental quality; abolishment of site review board; transfer of Michigan commission of agriculture to department of agriculture by type II transfer; appointment of director of department of agriculture by governor; transfer of agricultural preservation fund board and pesticide advisory committee to department of agriculture by type III transfer; transfer of powers and duties of office of racing commissioner from department of agriculture to Michigan gaming control board; membership of state interagency council on Spanish-speaking affairs.  WHEREAS, Section 1 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 vests the executive power of the State of Michigan in the Governor;  WHEREAS, Section 2 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 empowers the Governor to make changes in the organization of the executive branch or in the assignment of functions among its units that the Governor considers necessary for efficient administration;  WHEREAS, Section 8 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 provides that each principal department of state government shall be under the supervision of the Governor, unless otherwise provided in the Constitution;  WHEREAS, Section 52 of Article IV of the Michigan Constitution of 1963 declares the conservation and development of the natural resources of this state to be of paramount public concern in the interest of the health, safety, and general welfare of the people;  WHEREAS, the people of the State of Michigan have consistently demonstrated the importance of both natural resource management and protection of Michigan's unique environmental qualities; and  WHEREAS, the conservation and development of the natural resources of this state can best be achieved through efficient and coordinated management of state policies, programs, and functions, including, but not limited to, the implementation of an ecosystem-based strategy for resource management aimed at protecting and enhancing the sustainability, diversity, and productivity of the natural resources of this state;  WHEREAS, the consolidation of state government functions related to the natural resources and environment of this state will eliminate unnecessary duplication and facilitate more effective and efficient coordination of policies, programs, and functions related to natural resources and protecting the environment;  WHEREAS, the consolidation of state government functions related to the natural resources of this state and protection of the environment will better enable this state to conserve, manage, protect, and promote Michigan's environmental, natural resource, and related economic interests for current and future generations;  WHEREAS, the consolidation of state government functions related to the natural resources of the state will facilitate the effective use of our natural resources in a sustainable manner, preserve Michigan's rich outdoor heritage, provide quality and accessible public outdoor recreation, restore the Great Lakes and other degraded natural systems to ensure resiliency and sustainability, and promote stewardship of Michigan's natural resources through education, awareness, and action;  WHEREAS, it is necessary in the interests of efficient administration and effectiveness of government to change the organization of the executive branch of state government and to reduce the number of principal state departments;  NOW THEREFORE, I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, by virtue of the power and authority vested in the Governor by the Michigan Constitution of 1963 and Michigan law, order the following:   I. DEFINITIONS    As used in this Order:  A. "Civil Service Commission" means the commission required under Section 5 of Article XI of the Michigan Constitution of 1963.  B. "Commission of Agriculture" means the commission created under Section 1 of 1921 PA 13, MCL 285.1 and continued under Section 179 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.279.  C. "Commission of Natural Resources" means the commission created under Section 1 of 1921 PA 17, MCL 299.1, continued under Section 254 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.354, transferred to the Department of Natural Resources under Executive Order 1991-22, MCL 299.13, and continued under Section 501 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.501.  D. "Department of Agriculture" means the principal department of state government created under Section 1 of 1921 PA 13, MCL 285.1, and Section 175 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.275.  E. "Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth" means the principal department of state government created by Section 225 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.325, and renamed by Executive Order 1996-2, MCL 445.2001, by Executive Order 2003-18, MCL 445.2011, and by Executive Order 2008-20, MCL 445.2025.  F. "Department of Environmental Quality" means the principal department of state government created under Executive Order 1995-18, MCL 324.99903.  G. "Department of Management and Budget" means the principal department of state government created under Section 121 of The Management and Budget Act, 1984 PA 431, MCL 18.1121.  H. "Department of Natural Resources" means the principal department of state government provided for by Section 250 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.350, Executive Order 1991-22, MCL 299.13, and Section 501 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.501, as modified by Executive Order 1995-18, MCL 324.99903.  I. "Department of Natural Resources and Environment" or "Department" means the principal department of state government created under Section II of this Order.  J. "Department of Treasury" means the principal department of state government created under Section 75 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.175.  K. "Environmental Science Review Boards" means the boards provided for under Section II.C. of this Order.  L. "Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board" or "Executive Director" means the position created under Section 4 of the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, 1996 IL 1, MCL 432.204.  M. "Michigan Gaming Control Board" means the board created under Section 4 of the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, 1996 IL 1, MCL 432.204.  N. "Michigan Trails Advisory Council" or "Council" means the council created under Section II.D. of this Order.  O. "Natural Resources Commission" or "Commission" means the commission provided for by Section II.B. of this Order.  P. "State Budget Director" means the individual appointed by the Governor pursuant to Section 321 of The Management and Budget Act, 1984 PA 431, MCL 18.1321.  Q. "Type I transfer" means that phrase as defined in Section 3 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.103.  R. "Type II transfer" means that phrase as defined in Section 3 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.103.  S. "Type III transfer" means that phrase as defined in Section 3 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.103.   II. CREATION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT    A. Establishing the Department of Natural Resources and Environment as a Principal Department of State Government  1. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is created as a principal department of state government. The Department shall protect and conserve the air, water, and other natural resources of this state.  2. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment shall be the head of the Department. Consistent with Section 3 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the Director of the Department shall be appointed by the Governor, subject to disapproval under Section 6 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, and shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor.  3. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment shall establish the internal organization of the Department and allocate and reallocate duties and functions to promote economic and efficient administration and operation of the Department.  4. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment may promulgate rules and regulations as may be necessary to carry out functions vested in the Director under this Order or other law in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act of 1969, 1969 PA 306, MCL 24.201 to 24.328.  5. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment may perform a duty or exercise a power conferred by law or executive order upon the Director of the Department at the time and to the extent the duty or power is delegated to the Director of the Department by law or order.  6. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment may appoint 1 or more deputy directors and other assistants and employees as are necessary to implement and effectuate the powers, duties, and functions vested in the Department under this Order or other law of this state. Deputies may perform the duties and exercise the duties as prescribed by the Director. The Director may delegate within the Department a duty or power conferred on the Director of the Department by this Order or by other law, and the person to whom the duty or power is delegated may perform the duty or exercise the power at the time and to the extent that the duty or power is delegated by the Director of the Department.  7. Decisions made by the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or persons to whom the Director has lawfully delegated decision-making authority shall be subject to judicial review as provided by law and in accordance with applicable court rules.  8. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment may utilize administrative law judges and hearing officers employed by the State Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules created by Executive Order 2005-1, MCL 445.2021, to conduct contested case hearings and to issue proposals for decisions as provided by law or rule.  9. The position of the Director of the Department of Natural Resources as a member or chairperson of all of the following boards or commissions is transferred to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment:  a. Ex officio member of the Michigan Historical Commission under Section 1 of the Michigan Historical Commission Act, 1913 PA 271, MCL 399.1.  b. Member of the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission under Section 3 of the Michigan Freedom Trail Commission Act, 1998 PA 409, MCL 399.83.  c. Ex officio member of the Michigan Public Safety Communications System Advisory Board created under Executive Order 2005-8.  d. Member and Chairperson of the Michigan Commission on the Commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 created by Executive Order 2007-51.  e. Member and Chairperson of the Michigan Center for Innovation and Reinvention Board created under Section IV of Executive Order 2009-36.  10. The position of the Director of the Department of Environmental Quality as a member or chairperson of all of the following boards or commissions is transferred to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment:  a. Member of the Michigan Supply Chain Management Development Commission created within the Department of Treasury under Section 3 of 2008 PA 398, MCL 125.1893. Nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to authorize the use of state funds for the operations of the Michigan Supply Chain Management Development Commission.  b. Member and Chairperson of the Brownfield Redevelopment Board created under Section 20104a of the Natural Resources and Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.20104a, as modified by Executive Order 2003-18, MCL 445.2011, and Executive Order 2006-13, MCL 125.1991.  c. Ex officio member of the State Plumbing Board created within the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth under Section 13 of the State Plumbing Act, 2002 PA 733, MCL 338.3523.   d. Member of the Michigan Homeland Protection Board created within the Department of State Police under Executive Order 2003-6.  e. Member of the Michigan Citizen-Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council created within the Department of State Police under Executive Order 2007-18.  f. Member of the Great Lakes Wind Council created within the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth under Executive Order 2009-1.  11. The position as an ex officio member of the State Plumbing Board held by an employee of the Department of Environmental Quality designated by the Director of the Department of Environmental Quality under Section 13 of the State Plumbing Act, 2002 PA 733, MCL 338.3523, is transferred to a qualified employee of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment designated by the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  12. Subject to available funding, the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment shall continue efforts to reduce the time for the processing and issuance of environmental permits and related customer service practices with the objective of achieving best-in-class permit processing time and improved customer service. As used in this paragraph, "environmental permits" means all permits and operating licenses issued by the Department. Environmental permits do not include hunting, fur harvester, or fishing licenses or other licenses or permits issued under any of the following:  a. Part 401 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.40101 to 324.40120.  b. Part 413 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.41301 to 324.41325.  c. Part 421 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.42101 to 324.42106.  d. Part 427 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.42701 to 324.42714.  e. Part 435 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.43501 to 324.43561.  f. Part 441 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.44101 to 324.44106.  g. Part 445 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.44501 to 324.44526.  h. Part 457 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.45701 to 324.45711.  i. Part 459 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.45901 to 324.45908.  j. Part 473 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.47301 to 324.47362.  k. Part 515 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.51501 to 324.51514.  l. Part 741 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.74101 to 324.74126.  m. Part 761 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.76101 to 324.76118.  n. Part 801 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.80101 to 324.80199.  o. Part 811 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.81101 to 324.81150.  p. Part 821 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.82101 to 324.82160.  q. Section 509 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.509.  13. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment may establish advisory workgroups, advisory councils, or other ad hoc committees to provide citizen and other public input and to advise the Director or the Department on the exercise of the authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities vested in the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  B. Natural Resources Commission  1. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, the Commission of Natural Resources is transferred by Type II transfer from the Department of Natural Resources to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. The Commission of Natural Resources is renamed the Natural Resources Commission. Members of the Commission shall be knowledgeable about conservation and committed to the scientific management of natural resources. This paragraph does not affect the continued service or terms of office of the Commission of Natural Resources.  2. The Governor shall designate a member of the Natural Resources Commission to serve as its Chairperson at the pleasure of the Governor. The Commission may select a member of the Commission to serve as Vice-Chairperson of the Commission.  3. The Natural Resources Commission shall have and continue to exercise the authority, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities previously vested in the Commission on Natural Resources under all of the following:  a. Part 435 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.43501 to 324.43561.  b. Section 40111a of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.40111a.  c. Section 40113a of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.40113a.  4. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, the final decision of the Natural Resources Commission in any of the matters assigned to it under Section II.B.3. of this Order shall be made by the Natural Resources Commission or a person to whom the Commission has lawfully delegated such authority. Decisions by the Natural Resources Commission shall be subject to judicial review as provided by law and in accordance with applicable court rules.  5. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, the Natural Resources Commission may utilize administrative law judges and hearing officers employed by the State Office of Administrative Hearings and Rules created by Executive Order 2005-1, MCL 445.2021, to conduct contested case hearings and to issue proposals for decisions as provided by law or rule.  6. The Natural Resources Commission shall provide advice to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment on matters related to natural resources and conservation and may perform additional duties as provided by this Order, other law, or as requested by the Director or the Governor.  7. The Natural Resources Commission shall be staffed and assisted by personnel from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, subject to available funding. Any budgeting, procurement, or related management functions of the Commission shall be performed under the direction and supervision of the Director of the Department.  8. The Natural Resources Commission shall adopt procedures consistent with Michigan law and this Order governing its organization and operations.  9. A majority of the members of the Natural Resources Commission serving constitutes a quorum for the transaction of the Commission's business. The Commission shall act by a majority vote of its serving members.  10. The Natural Resources Commission shall meet at the call of the Chairperson and as may be provided in procedures adopted by the Commission.  11. The Natural Resources Commission may, as appropriate, make inquiries, studies, and investigations, hold hearings, and receive comments from the public. Subject to available funding, the Commission may also consult with outside experts in order to perform its duties, including, but not limited to, experts in the private sector, organized labor, government agencies, and at institutions of higher education.  12. Members of the Natural Resources Commission shall serve without compensation. Members of the Commission may receive reimbursement for necessary travel and expenses consistent with relevant statutes and the rules and procedures of the Civil Service Commission and the Department of Management and Budget, subject to available funding.  13. The Natural Resources Commission may accept donations of labor, services, or other things of value from any public or private agency or person.  14. Members of the Natural Resources Commission shall refer all legal, legislative, and media contacts to the Department.  C. Environmental Science Review Boards  1. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment may from time to time create one or more environmental science review boards to advise the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Governor on scientific issues affecting the protection and management of Michigan's environment and natural resources, or affecting a program administered by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  2. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order shall consist of 7 members appointed by the Director, each of whom shall have expertise in one or more of the following areas: biological sciences; chemistry; ecological science; engineering; geology; physics; risk assessment; and other related disciplines.  3. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order shall assess the scientific issue before the board and shall determine whether the board has sufficient expertise to fully review the issue. Should that board determine that additional expertise would aid the board in its review, the board may request assistance from 1 or more persons with knowledge and expertise related to the subject of the specific scientific inquiry.  4. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment shall designate a member of a board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order to serve as the chairperson of that board at the pleasure of the Director. The board may select a member of the board to serve as Vice-Chairperson of the board.  5. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order shall be staffed and assisted by personnel from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, subject to available funding. Any budgeting, procurement, or related management functions of the board shall be performed under the direction and supervision of the Director of the Department.  6. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order shall adopt procedures consistent with Michigan law and this Order governing its organization and operations.  7. A majority of the members serving on a board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order constitutes a quorum for the transaction of the board's business, and such a board shall act by a majority vote of its serving members.  8. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order shall meet at the call of its chairperson and as may be provided in procedures adopted by the board.  9. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order may, as appropriate, make inquiries, studies, investigations, hold hearings, and receive comments from the public. The board may also consult with outside experts in order to perform its duties, including, but not limited to, experts in the private sector, government agencies, and at institutions of higher education.  10. Members of a board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order shall serve without compensation. Members of a board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order may receive reimbursement for necessary travel and expenses consistent with relevant statutes and the rules and procedures of the Civil Service Commission and the Department of Management and Budget, subject to available funding.  11. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order may hire or retain contractors, sub-contractors, advisors, consultants, and agents, and may make and enter into contracts necessary or incidental to the exercise of the powers of the Board and the performance of its duties as the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment deems advisable and necessary, in accordance with this Order, the relevant statutes, the rules and procedures of the Civil Service Commission and the Department of Management and Budget, subject to available funding.  12. A board created under Section II.C.1. of this Order may accept donations of labor, services, or other things of value from any public or private agency or person.  D. Michigan Trails Advisory Council  1. The Michigan Trails Advisory Council is created as an advisory body within the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  2. The Council shall advise the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Governor on the creation, development, operation, and maintenance of motorized and non-motorized trails in this state, including, but not limited to, snowmobile, biking, equestrian, hiking, off-road vehicle, and skiing trails. In advising the Director and the Governor on the creation and development of motorized and non-motorized trails in this state, the Council shall seek to have the trails linked where ever possible. The Council may perform additional related duties as provided by this Order, other law, or as requested by the Director or the Governor.  3. The Council shall consist of 7 members appointed by the Governor. Members of the Council shall be appointed for a term of 4 years. A vacancy on the Council occurring other than by expiration of a term shall be filled by the Governor in the same manner as the original appointment for the balance of the unexpired term. A vacancy shall not affect the power of the remaining members to exercise the duties of the Council.  4. The Governor shall designate a member of the Council to serve as the Chairperson of the Council at the pleasure of the Governor. The Council may select a member of the Council to serve as Vice-Chairperson of the Council.  5. The Council shall be staffed and assisted by personnel from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, subject to available funding. Any budgeting, procurement, or related management functions of the Council shall be performed under the direction and supervision of the Director of the Department.  6. The Council shall adopt procedures consistent with Michigan law and this Order governing its organization and operations.  7. A majority of the members of the Council serving constitutes a quorum for the transaction of the Council's business. The Council shall act by a majority vote of its serving members.  8. The Council shall meet at the call of the Chairperson and as may be provided in procedures adopted by the Council.  9. The Council may, as appropriate, make inquiries, studies, investigations, hold hearings, and receive comments from the public. The Council may also consult with outside experts in order to perform its duties, including, but not limited to, experts in the private sector, government agencies, and at institutions of higher education.  10. The Council may establish advisory workgroups, including, but not limited to, an advisory workgroup on snowmobiles, as deemed necessary by the Council to assist the Council in performing the duties and responsibilities of the Council.  11. Members of the Council shall serve without compensation. Members of the Council may receive reimbursement for necessary travel and expenses consistent with relevant statutes and the rules and procedures of the Civil Service Commission and the Department of Management and Budget, subject to available funding.  12. The Council may hire or retain contractors, sub-contractors, advisors, consultants, and agents, and may make and enter into contracts necessary or incidental to the exercise of the powers of the Council and the performance of its duties as the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment deems advisable and necessary, in accordance with this Order, the relevant statutes, the rules and procedures of the Civil Service Commission and the Department of Management and Budget, subject to available funding.  13. The Council may accept donations of labor, services, or other things of value from any public or private agency or person.  14. Members of the Council shall refer all legal, legislative, and media contacts to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.   III. DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES    A. Transfers from the Department of Natural Resources  1. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, all of the authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, property, and budgetary resources of the Department of Natural Resources are transferred by Type II transfer to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, including, but not limited to, the authority, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources under all of the following:  a. 1974 PA 359, MCL 3.901 to 3.910 ("Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore").  b. The Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.350 to 16.360.  c. The Property Rights Preservation Act, 1996 PA 101, MCL 24.421 to 24.425.  d. Section 2 of the Methamphetamine Reporting Act, 2006 PA 262, MCL 28.192.  e. Section 7 of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 1998 PA 138, MCL 29.477.  f. Section 4c of 1913 PA 172, MCL 32.224c ("Crawford County land").  g. Section 48 of State Employees' Retirement Act, 1943 PA 240, MCL 38.48.  h. Section 8b of the Township and Village Public Improvement and Public Service Act, 1923 PA 116, MCL 41.418b.  i. Section 26 of The Home Rule Village Act, 1909 PA 278, MCL 78.26.  j. Section 10 of 1957 PA 185, MCL 123.740 ("county department and board of public works").  k. 1990 PA 182, MCL 141.1301 to 141.1304 ("county redistribution of federal payments").  l. Sections 7g and 7jj of The General Property Tax Act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.7g and MCL 211.7jj.  m. 1943 PA 92, MCL 211.371 to 211.375 ("withholding lands from sale").  n. Section 18 of 1909 PA 283, MCL 224.18 ("public highways and private roads").  o. Sections 3 and 4 of 1927 PA 341, MCL 247.43 and 247.44 ("discontinuation of highway bordering lake or stream").  p. Section 4 of 1941 PA 359, MCL 247.64 ("noxious weeds").  q. Sections 602a and 660 of the Michigan Vehicle Code, 1949 PA 300, MCL 257.602a and 257.660.  r. Section 4 of the Michigan Aquaculture Development Act, 1996 PA 199, MCL 286.874.  s. 1976 PA 308, MCL 287.251 to 287.258 ("disposal of livestock").  t. Section 14 of the Animal Industry Act, 1988 PA 466, MCL 287.714.  u. Privately Owned Cervidae Producers Marketing Act, 2000 PA 190, MCL 287.951 to 287.969.  v. 1986 PA 109, MCL 300.21 to 300.22 ("conservation officers").  w. The Right to Forest Act, 2002 PA 676, MCL 320.2031 to 320.2036.  x. The Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.101 to 324.90106.  y. The Clean Michigan Initiative Act, 1998 PA 284, MCL 324.95101 to 324.95108.  z. 2008 PA 290, MCL 324.95151 to 324.95155 ("control of gray wolves").  aa. 2008 PA 318, MCL 324.95161 to 324.95167 ("removal, capture, or lethal control of gray wolf").  bb. The Great Lakes Water Quality Bond Authorization Act, 2002 PA 396, MCL 324.95201 to 324.95208.  cc. The Michigan Civilian Conservation Corps Act, 1984 PA 22, MCL 409.301 to 409.314.  dd. Sections 167a and 167c of The Michigan Penal Code, 1931 PA 328, MCL 750.167a and 750.167c.  ee. Executive Order 1973-2, MCL 299.11.  ff. Executive Order 1973-12, MCL 125.241.  gg. Executive Order 1988-4, MCL 299.12.  hh. Executive Order 1991-31, MCL 299.13.  ii. Executive Order 1995-7, MCL 324.99901.  jj. Executive Order 2004-3, MCL 287.981.  kk. Executive Order 2007-14, MCL 324.99910.  ll. Executive Order 2009-14, MCL 324.99916.  mm. Executive Order 2009-15, MCL 324.99917.  2. The powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Department of Natural Resources transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment under Section III of this Order shall include, without limitation, the powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Department of Natural Resources relating to invasive species management.  3. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, all of the authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, rule-making authority, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Director of the Department of Natural Resources are transferred to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  4. The Department of Natural Resources is abolished.  5. After the effective date of this Order, statutory and other legal references to the Department of Natural Resources shall be deemed references to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  B. Citizens Committee for Michigan State Parks  1. The powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Citizens Committee for Michigan State Parks created under Section 74102a of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.74102a, are transferred from the Department of Natural Resources to the Natural Resources Commission provided for under Section II of this Order.  2. The Citizens Committee for Michigan State Parks is abolished.  C. Mackinac Island State Park Commission  1. The Mackinac Island State Park Commission provided for under 1958 PA 201, MCL 318.201 to 318.208, transferred under Section 256 of the Executive Organization Act of 1965, 1965 PA 380, MCL 16.356, and created by Section 76503 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.76503, and transferred to the Department of Natural Resources under Executive Order 2009-36, is transferred by Type I transfer from the Department of Natural Resources to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, including, but not limited to, the authority, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities of the Commission under all of the following:  a. Sections 76501 to 76509, 76701 to 76709, 76901 to 76903, 77101, 77301, 77302, 77701 to 77704, and 77901 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.76501 to 324.76509, 324.76701 to 324.76709, 324.76901 to 324.76903, 324.77101, 324.77301, 324.77302, 324.77701 to 324.77704, and 324.77901.  b. Section 511 of the Michigan Liquor Control Code of 1998, 58 PA 1998, MCL 436.1511.  D. Michigan Forest Finance Authority  1. The Michigan Forest Finance Authority created under Section 50503 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.50503, is transferred by Type I transfer from the Department of Natural Resources to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  2. The position of the Director of the Department of Natural Resources or his or her designee from within that Department as a member of the Board of Directors of the Michigan Forest Finance Authority under Section 50504 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.50504, is transferred to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or his or her designee from within that Department.  E. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board  1. The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board, created under Section 1905 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.1905, is transferred by Type I transfer from the Department of Natural Resources to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  2. The position of the Director of the Department of Natural Resources or a member of the Commission on Natural Resources as a member of the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board under Section 1905 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.1905, is transferred to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or his or her designee from within the Department, including, but not limited to, a member of the Natural Resources Commission.  F. Michigan Snowmobile Advisory Committee  1. The powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Michigan Snowmobile Advisory Committee created within the Department of Natural Resources under Section 82102a of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994, 1994 PA 324.82102a, are transferred to the Michigan Trails Advisory Council created under Section II.D. of this Order.  2. The Michigan Snowmobile Advisory Committee is abolished.  G. Michigan Trailways Advisory Council  1. The powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Michigan Trailways Advisory Council created within the Department of Natural Resources under Section 72110 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.72110, are transferred are transferred to the Michigan Trails Advisory Council created under Section II.D. of this Order.  2. The Michigan Trailways Advisory Council is abolished.  H. Water Resources Conservation Advisory Council  1. The Water Resources Conservation Advisory Council created within the Department of Natural Resources under Section 32803 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994, 1994 PA 324.32803, which was required to complete its final report by August 8, 2009, is transferred by Type III transfer from the Department of Natural Resources to the Natural Resources Commission provided for under Section II of this Order.  2. The Water Resources Conservation Advisory Council is abolished.   IV. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY    A. Transfers from the Department of Environmental Quality  1. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, all of the authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Department of Environmental Quality are transferred by Type II transfer to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, including, but not limited to, the authority, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Quality under all of the following:  a. Sections 2b and 2d of 1855 PA 105, MCL 21.142b and 21.142d ("surplus funds in treasury").  b. The Property Rights Preservation Act, 1996 PA 101, MCL 24.421 to 24.425.  c. Fire Prevention Code, 1941 PA 207, MCL 29.1 to 29.34.  d. The Hazardous Materials Transportation Act, 1998 PA 138, MCL 29.472 to 29.480.  e. Section 8a of the Urban Cooperation Act of 1967, 1967 (Ex Sess) PA 7, MCL 124.508a.  f. Sections 7, 9, and 10 of the Land Bank Fast Track Act, 2003 PA 258, MCL 124.757, 124.759, and 124.760.  g. Section 10 of the Water Resource Improvement Tax Increment Finance Authority Act, 2008 PA 94, MCL 125.1780.  h. The Mobile Home Commission Act, 1987 PA 96, MCL 125.2301 to 125.2349.  i. The Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act, 1996 PA 381, MCL 125.2651 to 125.2672.  j. The Safe Drinking Water Financial Assistance Act, 2000 PA 147, MCL 141.1451 to 141.1455.  k. Section 437 of the Michigan Business Tax Act, 2007 PA 436, MCL 208.1437.  l. Sections 9, 24, 34c, 34d, 53, 78g, and 78m of The General Property Tax Act, 1893 PA 206, MCL 211.9, 211.24, 211.34c, 211.34d, 211.53, 211.78g, and 211.78m.  m. Section 4 of 1951 PA 77, MCL 211.624 ("tax on low grade iron ore").  n. Sections 5 to 8 of 1963 PA 68, MCL 207.275 to 207.278 ("iron ore tax").  o. Section 811i of the Michigan Vehicle Code, 1949 PA 300, MCL 257.811i.  p. Section 204 of the Aeronautics Code of the State of Michigan, 1945 PA 327, MCL 259.204.  q. Section 423 of The Drain Code of 1956, 1956 PA 40, MCL 280.423.  r. Section 3 of the Julian-Stille Value-Added Act, 2000 PA 322, MCL 285.303.  s. Section 3 of 2008 PA 330, MCL 285.343 ("publication of information establishing alternative fuels facilities").  t. Section 4 of the Michigan Right to Farm Act, 1981 PA 93, MCL 286.474.  u. Section 14 of the Animal Industry Act, 1988 PA 466, MCL 287.714.  v. Sections 3, 6, 7, and 14 of the Privately Owned Cervidae Producers Marketing Act, 2000 PA 190, MCL 287.953, 287.956, 287.957, and 287.964.  w. Section 20 of the Grade A Milk Law of 2001, 2001 PA 266, MCL 288.490.  x. Sections 2 and 4 of the Michigan Agricultural Processing Act, 1998 PA 381, MCL 289.822 and 289.824  y. Section 7107 of the Food Law of 2000, 2000 PA 92, MCL 289.7107.  z. Sections 9j and 10d of the Motor Fuels Quality Act, 1984 PA 44, MCL 290.649j and 290.650d.  aa. The Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.101 to 324.90106.  bb. The Safe Drinking Water Act, 1976 PA 399, MCL 325.1001 to 325.1023.  cc. Sections 9601, 12103, 12501 to 12563, 12701 to 12771, 13501 to 13536, 13716, 13801 to 13831, and 16631 of the Public Health Code, 1978 PA 368, MCL 333.9601, 333.12103, 333.12501 to 333.12563, 333.12701 to 333.12771, 333.13501 to 333.13536, 333.13716, 333.13801 to 333.13831, and 333.16631.  dd. Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority, 1987 PA 204, MCL 333.26201 to 333.26226.  ee. Section 3f of 1976 Initiated Law 1, MCL 445.573f ("beverage containers").  ff. Sections 27 and 77 of the Clean, Renewable, and Efficient Energy Act, 2008 PA 295, MCL 460.1027 and 460.1077.  gg. Sections 71 and 71a of the Condominium Act, 1978 PA 59, MCL 559.171 and 559.171a.  hh. Sections 105, 116 to 118, 194, and 254 of the Land Division Act, 1967 PA 288, MCL 560.105, 560.116 to 560.118, 560.194, and 560.254.  ii. Executive Order 1995-18, MCL 324.99903.  jj. Executive Order 1996-1, MCL 330.3101.  kk. Executive Order 1996-2, MCL 445.2001.  ll. Executive Order 1997-2, MCL 29.451.  mm. Executive Order 1997-3, MCL 324.99904.  nn. Executive Order 1998-2, MCL 29.461.  oo. Executive Order 2007-6, MCL 324.99905.  pp. Executive Order 2007-7, MCL 324.99906.  qq. Executive Order 2007-8, MCL 324.99907.  rr. Executive Order 2007-10, MCL 324.99908.  ss. Executive Order 2007-13, MCL 324.99909.  tt. Executive Order 2007-21, MCL 324.99911.  uu. Executive Order 2007-29, MCL 324.99912.  vv. Executive Order 2007-33, MCL 324.99913.  ww. Executive Order 2007-34, MCL 324.99914.  xx. Executive Order 2009-13, MCL 324.99915.  yy. Executive Order 2009-17, MCL 333.26365.  zz. Executive Order 2009-26, MCL 324.99918.  aaa. Executive Order 2009-28, MCL 333.26367.  bbb. Section 11117 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.11117, as transferred under Section IV.D. of this Order.  2. The powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Department of Environmental Quality transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment under Section IV of this Order shall include, without limitation, the powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Department of Environmental Quality relating to invasive species management.  3. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, all of the authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities, rule-making authority, personnel, equipment, and budgetary resources of the Director of the Department of Environmental Quality are transferred to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  4. The Department of Environmental Quality is abolished.  5. After the effective date of this Order, statutory and other legal references to the Department of Environmental Quality shall be deemed references to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  B. Office of the Great Lakes  1. The Office of the Great Lakes created under Section 32903 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.32903, and subsequently transferred to the Department of Environmental Quality by Executive Order 1995-18, MCL 324.99903, is transferred by Type I transfer from the Department of Environmental Quality to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  2. The Director of the Office of the Great Lakes shall continue to serve as a member of the Governor's Cabinet.  C. Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority  1. The Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority, created within the Department of Management and Budget under Section 3 of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority Act, 1987 PA 204, MCL 333.26203, and transferred to the Department of Commerce under Executive Order 1991-23, MCL 333.26251, and to the Department of Environmental Quality under Executive Order 1996-2, MCL 445.2001, is transferred by Type I transfer from the Department of Environmental Quality to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  2. The authority, powers, duties, and functions of the Commissioner of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority are transferred by Type III transfer to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, or his or her designee from within the Department, may perform the functions of the Commissioner of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority or may administer the assigned functions of the Commissioner of the Low-Level Radioactive Waste Authority in other ways to promote efficient administration.  D. Site Review Board  1. The Site Review Board created within the Department of Environmental Quality under Section 11117 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.11117, is transferred by Type III transfer to the Department of Environmental Quality.  2. The Site Review Board is abolished.   V. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE    A. Michigan Commission of Agriculture  1. The Michigan Commission of Agriculture is transferred by Type II transfer to the Department of Agriculture. This paragraph does not affect the continued service or terms of office of the Michigan Commission of Agriculture.  2. Upon the effective date of this Order, the Director of the Department of Agriculture shall be the head of the Department. Consistent with Section 3 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, after the effective date of this Order, any vacancy in the office of Director of the Department of Agriculture shall be filled by appointment of the Governor, subject to disapproval under Section 6 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, and the Director of the Department of Agriculture shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor.  B. Agricultural Preservation Fund Board  1. The Agricultural Preservation Fund Board created within the Department of Agriculture under Section 36204 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.36204, is transferred by Type III transfer to the Department of Agriculture.  2. The Agricultural Preservation Fund Board is abolished.  C. Michigan Family Farm Development Authority  1. The Michigan Family Farm Development Authority created within the Department of Agriculture under Section 3 of the Michigan Family Farm Development Act, 1982 PA 220, MCL 285.253, is transferred by Type III transfer to the Department of Agriculture.  2. The Michigan Family Farm Development Authority is abolished.  D. Pesticide Advisory Committee  1. The Pesticide Advisory Committee created within the Department of Agriculture under Section 8326 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.8326, is transferred by Type III transfer to the Department of Agriculture.  2. The Pesticide Advisory Committee is abolished.  3. The Director of the Department of Agriculture may establish advisory workgroups, advisory councils, or other ad hoc committees to provide citizen and other public input and to advise the Director or the Department on the exercise of authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities vested in the Department of Agriculture, including, but not limited to, authority, powers, duties, functions, responsibilities vested in the Department of Agriculture under this Section V.D.  E. Office of Racing Commissioner  1. All of the authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations, or other funds of the Office of Racing Commissioner created within the Department of Agriculture under Section 3 of the Horse Racing Law of 1995, 1995 PA 279, MCL 431.303, are transferred from the Department of Agriculture to the Michigan Gaming Control Board, including, but not limited to, the authority, powers, duties, functions, records, personnel, property, independent balances of appropriations, allocations, or other funds under all of the following:  a. The Horse Racing Law of 1995, 1995 PA 279, MCL 431.301 to 431.336.  b. 1951 PA 90, MCL 431.252 to 431.257.  c. Section 12 of the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, 1996 IL 1, MCL 432.212.  d. Sections 4 and 5 of the Compulsive Gaming Prevention Act, 1997 PA 70, MCL 432.254 and 432.255.  2. The Office of Racing Commissioner and the position of Racing Commissioner are abolished.  3. The authority, powers, duties, functions, and personnel transferred under Section V.E. of this Order shall be performed under the direction and supervision of the Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board.  4. The Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board shall perform all the functions and exercise the powers of the Racing Commissioner, including, but not limited to, possessing the final authority over contested cases, licensing, and rule promulgation.  5. Except as otherwise provided in Section V.E. of this Order, the Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board shall provide executive direction and supervision for the implementation of all transfers under Section V.E. of this Order.  6. Internal organizational changes shall be made as may be administratively necessary to complete the realignment of responsibilities necessary under Section V.E. of this Order.  7. The authority, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities transferred under Section V.E. of this Order shall be administered by the Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board in such ways as to promote efficient administration.  8. The Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board may in writing delegate a duty or power conferred on the Executive Director under Section V.E. of this Order or by other law, and the person to whom the duty or power is delegated may perform the duty or exercise the power at the time and to the extent that the duty or power is delegated by the Executive Director.  9. All records, property, grants, and unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations, and other funds used, held, employed, available, or to be made available to the Office of Racing Commissioner for the activities, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities transferred under Section V.E. of this Order are transferred to the Michigan Gaming Control Board.  10. The State Budget Director shall determine and authorize the most efficient manner possible for handling financial transactions and records in the state's financial management system necessary for the implementation of Section V.E. of this Order.  11. Departments, agencies, and state officers within the executive branch of state government shall fully and actively cooperate with the Executive Director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board in the implementation of Section V.E. of this Order. The Executive Director may request the assistance of other departments, agencies, and state officers with respect to personnel, budgeting, procurement, telecommunications, information systems, legal services, and other issues related to implementation of the transfers under Section V.E. of this Order, and the departments and agencies shall provide the assistance requested.   VI. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY, LABOR, AND ECONOMIC GROWTH    A. Upon the effective date of this Order, the State Interagency Council on Spanish-Speaking Affairs created under Section 6 of 1975 PA 164, MCL 18.306, transferred to the Director of the Department of Career Development by Type III transfer under Executive Order 2000-5, MCL 18.311, and restored within the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth under Executive Order 2003-18, MCL 445.2011, shall consist of all of the following members:  1. The Attorney General or his or her designee from within the Department of Attorney General.  2. The Director of the Department of Agriculture or his or her designee from within the Department of Agriculture.  3. The Director of the Department of Civil Rights or his or her designee from within the Department of Civil Rights.  4. The Director of the Department of Community Health or his or her designee from within the Department of Community Health.  5. The Director of the Department of Corrections or his or her designee from within the Department of Corrections.  6. The Director of the Department of Human Services or his or her designee from within the Department of Human Services.  7. The Director of the Department of Information Technology or his or her designee from within the Department of Information Technology.  8. The Director of the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth or his or her designee from within the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth.  9. The Director of the Department of Management and Budget or his or her designee from within the Department of Management and Budget.  10. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment or his or her designee from within the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.  11. The Executive Director of the Women's Commission.  12. The Executive Director of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority or his or her designee from within the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.  13. The President of the Michigan Strategic Fund or his or her designee from within the Michigan Strategic Fund.  14. The State Personnel Director or his or her designee from within the Civil Service Commission.  15. The State Treasurer or his or her designee from within the Department of Treasury.  16. The Secretary of State or his or her designee from within the Department of State.  17. The Superintendent of Public Instruction or his or her designee from within the Department of Education.   VII. IMPLEMENTATION OF TRANSFERS TO DEPARTMENT OF   NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT    A. The Governor shall designate an individual to serve as the Transition Manager for the implementation of transfers to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. The Transition Manager shall immediately initiate coordination with departments and agencies within the executive branch of state government to facilitate the transfers to the Department under this Order. State departments and agencies shall actively cooperate with the transition manager as the Transition Manager performs duties and functions relating to the implementation of this Order. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, the transition manager shall provide executive direction and supervision for the implementation of the transfers to the Department under this Order.  B. The functions transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment under this Order shall be administered under the direction and supervision of the Director of the Department.  C. The Director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment shall administer the assigned functions transferred to the Department under this Order in such ways as to promote efficient administration and shall make internal organizational changes as may be administratively necessary to complete the realignment of responsibilities under this Order based upon initial recommendations from the transition manager.  D. Except as otherwise provided in this Order, any authority, duties, powers, functions, and responsibilities transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment under this Order, and not otherwise mandated by law, may in the future be reorganized to promote efficient administration by the Director of the Department.  E. Any records, personnel, property, and unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations, and other funds used, held, employed, available, or to be made available to any entity for the authority, activities, powers, duties, functions, and responsibilities transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment under this Order are transferred to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.   VIII. MISCELLANEOUS    A. The State Budget Director shall determine and authorize the most efficient manner possible for handling financial transactions and records in this state's financial management system necessary to implement this Order.  B. Any suit, action, or other proceeding lawfully commenced by, against, or before any entity affected by this Order shall not abate by reason of the taking effect of this Order. Any suit, action, or other proceeding may be maintained by, against, or before the appropriate successor of any entity affected by this Order.  C. All rules, regulations, orders, contracts, and agreements relating to the functions transferred under this Order lawfully adopted prior to the effective date of this Order shall continue to be effective until revised, amended, repealed, or rescinded.  D. This Order shall not abate any criminal action commenced by this state prior to the effective date of this Order.  E. The invalidity of any portion of this Order shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the Order, which may be given effect without any invalid portion. Any portion of this Order found invalid by a court or other entity with proper jurisdiction shall be severable from the remaining portions of this Order.  In fulfillment of the requirements of Section 2 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the provisions of this Executive Order, except for Section IV.D. of this Order, are effective January 17, 2010 at 12:01 a.m. Section IV.D of this Order is effective 60 calendar days after the filing of this Order, consistent with Section 2 of Article V of the Michigan Constitution of 1963. History: 2009, E.R.O. No. 2009-31, Eff. Dec. 7, 2009 Compiler's Notes: In Section II.A.10.b., the citation to "the Natural Resources and Protection Act" evidently should read "the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act".In Section III.F.1., the citation to "Section 82102a of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994, 1994 PA 324.82102a" evidently should read "Section 82102a of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.82102a".In Section III.G.1., the phrase "are transferred are transferred to the Michigan Trails Advisory Council" evidently should read "are transferred to the Michigan Trails Advisory Council".In Section III.H.1., the citation to "Section 32803 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994, 1994 PA 324.82803" evidently should read "Section 32803 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, MCL 324.82803".For abolishment of department of natural resources and environment and creation of department of natural resources, see E.R.O. No. 2011-1, compiled at MCL 324.99921.For transfer of natural resources commission from department of natural resources and environment to department of natural resources, see E.R.O. No. 2011-1, compiled at MCL 324.99921.For transfer of Mackinac Island state park commission from department of natural resources and environment to department of natural resources, see E.R.O. No. 2011-1, compiled at MCL 324.99921.For transfer of Michigan forest finance authority from department of natural resources and environment to department of natural resources, see E.R.O. No. 2011-1, compiled at MCL 324.99921.For transfer of Michigan natural resources trust fund board from department of natural resources and environment to department of natural resources, see E.R.O. No. 2011-1, compiled at MCL 324.99921.