Bill > SB650

This bill addresses public utilities, specifically municipal sanitary sewer systems, and modifies provisions in the Governmental Tort Claims Act. The bill requires public utilities to develop and implement comprehensive plans for maintaining and operating their sanitary sewer systems, including mapping, inspection, cleaning, root control, overflow response, and funding strategies. The plan must include policies for handling fats, oils, and grease, connecting new constructions to sewer systems, and installing backflow prevention devices. Public utilities must also create a five-year capital improvement plan and review their funding availability model every five years. The bill limits personal injury recovery for sanitary sewer overflows if the utility is actively maintaining its system according to its plan. Additionally, the bill increases damage award limits in the Governmental Tort Claims Act, raising the property loss claim limit from $25,000 to $35,000 and introducing specific limits for municipal overflow damages. The bill also adds several exemptions for utility liability, such as overflows caused by extraordinary rainfall events or on private property where the utility is compliant with the new regulations. The provisions will become effective on November 1, 2025, providing utilities time to develop and implement the required plans.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb650&Session=2600