House Bill No. 1356 establishes a new legal requirement for individuals entering through gates used for ingress or egress to properties designated as easements. The bill mandates that these individuals must maintain the position of the gate upon use. It also prescribes penalties for violations, categorizing them as misdemeanors with escalating fines and imprisonment terms for repeat offenses. Specifically, a first offense can result in a fine of up to $500 or up to 90 days in jail, while a second offense can lead to fines of up to $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail. A third or subsequent offense may incur fines of up to $1,500 and up to one year in jail. Additionally, individuals convicted under this law will be liable for damages.
The bill also empowers the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry to create rules necessary for the implementation of these provisions. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.