Bill > HB1989

This bill modifies Oklahoma's existing wind farm regulations by updating several key setback requirements and dates. The bill changes the effective date for wind energy facility construction restrictions from August 21, 2015, to November 1, 2025, and expands the list of setback distances for wind turbine towers. Specifically, in addition to existing restrictions near airports, public schools, and hospitals, the bill now requires wind turbine bases to be at least two nautical miles from wildlife refuges, wildlife management areas, bodies of water considered habitats for migrating waterfowl, and active aquifers. The bill maintains provisions requiring wind energy facilities to obtain a Determination of No Hazard from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and resolve any potential adverse impacts to military installations through the Military Aviation and Installation Assurance Siting Clearinghouse. It also preserves the existing administrative penalty of up to $1,500 per day for facilities that fail to submit required documentation before construction, and allows stakeholders to take legal action to prevent violations. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, providing wind energy developers with advance notice of the new setback requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1989&Session=2600