Bill > SB1071

This bill establishes two key initiatives related to wildland fires in Oklahoma: the Wildland Fire Act and the Wildland Fire Mitigation Program Act. Under the Wildland Fire Act, the bill defines a comprehensive framework for wildland fire liability, specifying that any person who negligently, recklessly, or intentionally causes or spreads a wildland fire can be held liable for property damages, regardless of land ownership. Electric utilities are granted a specific protection from liability if their facilities meet established safety standards. The bill limits damage awards to either the cost of property restoration or the difference in property value before and after the fire, and explicitly excludes punitive damages. The Wildland Fire Mitigation Program Act creates a new program within the Oklahoma Conservation Commission to develop proactive strategies for reducing wildland fire risks, including a pilot program focused on areas historically impacted by large-scale fires. The bill also establishes a dedicated revolving fund to support these mitigation efforts, which can receive funding from appropriations, grants, and private donations. The legislation defines key terms like "wildland fire" broadly to include uncontrolled fires on various types of land that can damage structures, and it is set to become effective on November 1, 2025.