SB1336: OK Rejects $10 Million Fund for Expanding Lake and River Access

No new investments in outdoor recreation

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What did SB1336 want to accomplish?

SB1336 wanted to create a new fund called the Oklahoma Boating Access Revolving Fund.

Here’s what it proposed:

1. New Fund: The bill would set up a special fund to help people get better access to lakes and rivers in Oklahoma.
2. Sources of Money: The fund would get money from state funds, federal funds, donations, and other sources.
3. What the Money Will Be Used For: The Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission would have used this money to improve access to boating areas. This includes leasing land, buying easements (rights to use land), and developing or managing these areas.
4. Extra Funds: The Commission could also accept more money from other sources to add to the fund.
5. Big Investment: The state originally intended to put $10 million into this fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023. The bill sponsors tried to pass again in 2024.

Who would have benefited from this law?

✔️Boaters and Fishermen: People who enjoy boating and fishing will have better access to lakes and rivers.

✔️Oklahoma Residents: Local residents will have more recreational opportunities.

✔️Visitors: Tourists and visitors will also benefit from improved access to outdoor activities in Oklahoma.

What are some concerns people might have about this law?

Some of these may be why the bill failed to pass:

⚠️Cost to the State: The $10 million allocated could be a large expense for the state.

⚠️Maintenance Challenges: Managing and maintaining the new or improved access areas might be difficult and expensive.

⚠️Potential for Misuse: There might be concerns about how the funds are used or whether they are spent efficiently.

This bill was introduced on 2/20/24 by Senator David Bullard [R] and Senator Blake Stephens [R].

Due to a lack of support, missed deadlines, committee action, leadership decisions or veto, this bill failed to pass and will not be signed into law.

➡️Is this something that you think Oklahomans need? How would it have benefited the county you live in?

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Hi, I'm Judy! I love talking about the area I live in and what affects us. Follow me if you'd like more stories like this.