Bill > SB836

This bill amends Oklahoma's existing law regarding the state Department of Transportation's authority to acquire land for highway purposes by clarifying and updating several provisions related to property condemnation. The bill modifies the process for land acquisition, including how the Department can purchase, donate, or condemn land for highway construction, and provides more detailed guidelines for determining just compensation. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that limits a mortgagee or lien holder's liability for repaying excess funds from a condemnation award, stipulating that they are only required to return overpayments if the determination of just compensation is made within one year of receiving the initial payment. The bill also updates the language and formatting of the existing statute, converting lettered subsections from lowercase to uppercase and making minor grammatical adjustments. The legislation will become effective on July 1, 2025, and contains an emergency clause that allows it to take effect immediately upon passage, which is typical for laws related to public infrastructure and safety. The changes aim to provide more clarity and protection for property owners and lien holders during the land condemnation process.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb836&Session=2500