The bill amends Section 1705 of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority's governing statutes, focusing on the Authority's powers and duties regarding turnpike projects. It establishes strict deadlines for project commencement and completion, requiring construction to start within five years of legislative authorization and projects to be operational within ten years. If these deadlines are not met, the legislative authorization will lapse, although existing contracts and revenue streams will remain unaffected. The bill also introduces a requirement for the Authority to file a report within sixty days of any lapse, detailing expenditures and obligations related to the projects.

Significant changes include the deletion of the term "Transportation" and its replacement with "Turnpike" in relation to a new bridge project, which must achieve self-sufficiency through toll revenues within thirty years. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the Authority's responsibility to install automatic tollgates on the Will Rogers Turnpike and outlines various projects it is authorized to undertake. Overall, the bill aims to improve the operational efficiency of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority while ensuring accountability and adherence to legislative timelines, with an effective date set for November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 69-1705