Bill > HB1438

This bill modifies two sections of Oklahoma law related to water resources and grant programs, primarily increasing the maximum funding amounts for certain grants. Specifically, for the Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP) grant program, the bill raises the maximum grant amount that a qualified entity can receive from $150,000 to $350,000 within a twelve-month period. Similarly, for grants administered through the Water Resources Fund, the bill increases the maximum grant amount from $100,000 to $300,000 per fiscal year for a single eligible entity, and the same amount per participating entity for multi-entity projects. The bill maintains existing provisions that prioritize smaller communities (populations under 7,000 or 1,750 people) and ensures that no more than 10% of grants can be used for planning purposes. The Oklahoma Water Resources Board will continue to administer these grants, considering factors such as local needs, project benefits, and the financial capacity of applicants. The changes aim to provide more financial flexibility for water-related infrastructure and improvement projects in rural and smaller Oklahoma communities, with the bill set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1438&Session=2600