House Bill No. 2872 mandates that the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority must undertake specific actions before proposing any new turnpike or modifications to existing ones. Key requirements include notifying affected property owners, allowing a 30-day public comment period, and scheduling a hearing to gather oral arguments and data from interested parties. The Authority is also required to assess the potential impacts of the proposed turnpike on various property owners, businesses, and consumer groups, and may modify proposals if adverse effects are identified. Additionally, the Authority must provide an electronic copy of the proposed turnpike map to key state officials.
The bill stipulates that the notice to affected parties must include a summary of the turnpike, the proposed actions, the legal authority for the project, and the expected effects. It also requires the Authority to consider input from business entities regarding potential costs associated with compliance. Any actions taken by the Authority must comply substantially with these requirements, and affected individuals or entities have the right to seek legal relief for violations. Successful plaintiffs may recover court costs and attorney fees, while the Authority can recover fees if it successfully defends against frivolous claims. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.