The bill amends the governing statutes of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, specifically 69 O.S. 2021, Sections 1705 and 1718, to enhance public involvement and transparency in the approval of new turnpike routes. It requires the Authority to hold an open public meeting for route design approval and to report to the Governor, legislators, and local officials with project maps and details. Additionally, municipalities or counties where a new route is proposed must conduct a voter election, and if the majority opposes the route, the Authority must redesign it. The bill also removes the Authority's power to acquire property through condemnation, mandating that notice be sent to affected property owners.

Moreover, the bill introduces several operational amendments, including stipulations that no contract can involve more than one type of construction work and that 90% of labor on construction projects must be performed by Oklahoma residents. It prohibits Authority members from engaging in business transactions for personal profit, classifying violations as a Class D1 felony. The bill allows the Authority to apply for bond approval from the Supreme Court of Oklahoma, with required notifications to local property owners, and clarifies the court's responsibilities in bond approval. It also repeals Section 1722 and is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 69-1705, 69-1722