This bill amends existing laws related to eminent domain in Oklahoma, specifically addressing the reimbursement of expenses incurred by property owners when their property is not acquired through the condemnation process. The amendments to 27 O.S. 2021, Section 11 introduce new conditions under which property owners may be reimbursed for reasonable attorney, appraisal, and engineering fees. Notably, if the condemning authority demands a jury trial and the jury's award is at least 90% of the court-appointed commissioners' award, the property owner may be reimbursed. Additionally, if both parties demand a jury trial and the jury's award meets or exceeds the commissioners' award, reimbursement is also applicable. Furthermore, if a written settlement offer from the condemning authority exceeds the commissioners' award, the property owner must exceed that offer by at least 10% to qualify for reimbursement.

The bill also amends 66 O.S. 2021, Section 55, clarifying the process for reviewing the commissioners' report and the conditions under which costs may be taxed against a party. The language has been updated to ensure that the terms used are consistent and clear, such as changing references from "him" to "such party." The amendments aim to streamline the process and provide clearer guidelines for reimbursement and the handling of costs in eminent domain cases. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.