House Bill No. 1438, introduced by Patzkowsky, amends existing laws related to the administration of the Rural Economic Action Plan grant program and the Water Resources Fund in Oklahoma. The bill increases the monetary cap on grants awarded to eligible entities from $150,000 to $350,000, allowing for greater financial support for water quality projects, including sewer and water line construction, repair, and treatment. Additionally, it establishes a structure for the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to manage funds more effectively by creating ten separate accounts for distribution, ensuring that no funds are transferred between accounts, and prioritizing municipalities with smaller populations for funding.

The bill also modifies the grant provisions under the Water Resources Fund, raising the maximum grant amount from $100,000 to $300,000 for eligible entities. It emphasizes the need for fair and equitable distribution of funds and allows the Board to establish rules for prioritizing applications. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, aiming to enhance the support for water-related projects across the state while ensuring that smaller communities receive the necessary assistance.