House Bill No. 1356 establishes new regulations regarding the use of gates on properties designated as easements in Oklahoma. The bill mandates that individuals entering through these gates must maintain their position upon use. It introduces 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 subsequent offenses can lead to fines of up to $1,500 and imprisonment for up to one year. 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 necessary rules for the implementation of these provisions. The law is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, following its passage in the House of Representatives on May 21, 2025.