Bill > SB940

This bill requires the Oklahoma Conservation Commission to develop and implement a statewide plan for controlling, removing, and eradicating harmful woody species on state-owned, -leased, or -operated lands. Specifically, by January 1, 2026, multiple state agencies including Agriculture, Land Office, Wildlife Conservation, Corrections, Tourism, Transportation, and Turnpike Authority must submit a comprehensive report to the Commission detailing their inventory of harmful woody species and their plans for control. The bill defines "harmful woody species" as trees or shrubs that rapidly encroach on adjoining lands and potentially cause environmental or economic harm, with specific examples including Eastern Redcedar, Rocky Mountain juniper, oneseed juniper, and salt cedar. These agencies must then submit annual electronic reports to the Legislature by November 1st each year starting in 2026, documenting their progress in controlling these species. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission is authorized to assist agencies in developing and expanding their control strategies and is required to create necessary rules to implement the plan. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause to emphasize the immediate importance of addressing these invasive woody species.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb940&Session=2600