This bill amends Section 98.6 of Title 25 of the Oklahoma Statutes to officially designate a new state fossil. The current state fossil, Saurophaganax Maximus, is replaced with Sauroposeidon proteles, an Early Cretaceous sauropod dinosaur. The bill provides a more detailed description of the new state fossil, highlighting its significance in Oklahoma's paleontological heritage. It notes that Sauroposeidon proteles is among the tallest dinosaurs ever discovered and emphasizes the importance of fossils found in Atoka County, which were initially mistaken for petrified tree trunks.
The bill also underscores Oklahoma's vital role in the study of prehistoric life, as the fossils have contributed significantly to understanding the species. The effective date for this change is set for November 1, 2026.