OK SB596

Creates the Oklahoma Water Center as a water science and research advisory council to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to implement the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan.

Establishes a Board of the Oklahoma Water Center consisting of five state agency heads and two appointed legislative members, serving without compensation.

Imposes a severance fee on water transferred outside Oklahoma, with fees collected into the Oklahoma Water Center Revolving Fund for distribution to public agencies for water infrastructure projects.

Requires permit holders transferring water outside the state to meter usage, report annually, and submit severance fees by June 30 each year; exempts modifications or renewals of permits issued before the act's effective date.

Directs the Center to recommend water management strategies and pricing structures, monitor out-of-state water transfers, and promote water conservation and drought planning across the state's watershed regions.