This bill amends Section 53 of Title 66 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which governs the process of eminent domain, specifically regarding the condemnation of property by railroad corporations. The key change introduced by this bill is the requirement for a commission to hold a necessity hearing to determine if the condemnation action is based on a valid public use. The commission will inspect the property in question, assess any potential injury to the property owner, and evaluate just compensation. Their findings will be reported to the court, indicating whether the condemnation should proceed based on the validity of the public use.
Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "just compensation" to include not only the value of the property taken but also any injury to the remaining property. It specifies that any special benefits to the remaining property can only be offset against injuries to that property. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.