Senate committee advances bill to create one‑time water and wastewater fund; sponsor sought larger initial ask

Senate Bill 92, a proposal to create a one‑time water and wastewater investment fund administered through the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), passed the Senate Energy Committee unanimously (11-0).

Senator Bullard, the bill sponsor, said the measure would establish a legacy account to fund water and wastewater needs across the state, focusing on mid‑sized and rural towns while including mechanisms for larger urban needs as well. He explained the reason for striking title during committee was to continue negotiation over the dollar amount and administrative fees; he said the initial ask on the House side had been $500 million but that figure was subject to negotiation. "I will say this... 500,000,000 is a lot of money," the sponsor told committee members and added the intent was to use one‑time monies smartly.

Julie Cunningham, director of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, participated and told the committee that public water providers—including municipalities and special districts—would be eligible under title 82 and that the program would be structured like existing grant and loan programs with portions set aside by community size. She also said the account could be used to leverage other programs.

Members asked about prioritizing Oklahoma firms and local labor for projects. Senator Bullard said he supported exploring language to encourage use of Oklahoma companies and would follow up with OWRB staff.

Several senators praised the bill’s potential to address aging infrastructure and prevent water loss, while others asked for further details on distribution, administrative fee levels and how the fund would be sized relative to state reserves. The sponsor noted state savings and said the intent is to use one‑time funds without creating recurring obligations.

The committee recorded 11 ayes and 0 nays and passed the bill out of committee for further action.