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Water-use metering bill laid over after lengthy debate over costs, enforcement and farmer burden
Summary
Senate Bill 259, which would require metering or alternate measuring systems for permitted water wells and expand Water Resources Board authority, drew extended debate over costs to farmers, fiscal impact and state enforcement. Sponsor Senator Howard requested the bill be laid over.
Senator Howard presented Senate Bill 259 to the Oklahoma Senate Committee on Energy and described it as a multi-year effort to provide accurate water-use data to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and local water districts.
"We don't have accurate information," Senator Howard said, arguing better measurement would let the Water Resources Board and permitted users verify reported use and speed complaint resolution. He described provisions that would require meters or alternative measuring systems for permitted non-domestic wells, authorize progressive fines for noncompliance and make changes to how water-use reports are…
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