The Oklahoma Safe Neighborhoods Act of 2026 establishes a framework for property owners and triple net leaseholders in municipalities with populations over 130,000 to seek compensation from local governments for losses incurred due to the non-enforcement of certain laws or the maintenance of public nuisances. The act defines key terms such as "illegal public camping," "loitering," and "panhandling," and allows affected individuals to submit claims for compensation based on documented expenses incurred to mitigate the effects of these issues on their properties. Compensation is capped at the amount paid in primary property taxes for the previous year, and claims must be addressed by the municipality or county within 30 days.
Additionally, the act outlines the process for submitting claims, including the right to challenge rejections in court, where the burden of proof lies with the municipality or county. It also specifies that property owners may only submit one claim per tax year and may seek additional compensation in subsequent years if the problematic ordinance or nuisance persists. The act includes exemptions for prosecutorial discretion and federal mandates, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.