Bill > HB4459

This bill amends existing law regarding water rights by authorizing a new groundwater measurement program. Specifically, it allows groundwater irrigation districts or conservation districts to develop programs that provide metering devices to their members to help calibrate wells and irrigation systems for efficiency. If a person or entity participates in such a program and receives certification, they can then apply to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board for a five-year flexible groundwater allocation. To qualify, applicants must provide certification that their wells have been part of the district's metering program using Board-approved systems, submit similar certification at the end of the five-year period, and pay the annual groundwater permit fee. This flexible allocation permits permit holders to exceed their determined annual allocation in any given year within the five-year period, as long as they stay within the cumulative allocation for the entire basin or subbasin over those five years, with a cap of not exceeding the annual allocation by more than 200% in any single year. Violating these limits will result in penalties for taking and using groundwater without a permit. The bill also specifies an effective date of November 1, 2026.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb4459&Session=2600