Idaho Senator Doug Okuniewicz, the bill's sponsor, has defended his legislation against potential repercussions to Harriman State Park. Senate Bill 1300 would allow the Governor to appoint directors to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, Idaho Fish and Game, and Idaho Transportation Department, subject to confirmation every four years. Okuniewi believes this would improve relationships between the Legislature and the agencies. However, opposition parties argue that this violates the 1961 agreement established by the Harrimans, which stipulates that the Park should be controlled by the Governor. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 21 to 14 and is now being considered by the Idaho House of Representatives.