OK SB76

Amends 52 O.S. 2001, Section 318.5 to require oil and gas operators to negotiate in good faith with surface owners for payment of damages before entering property with heavy equipment

If negotiations fail or surface owners cannot be contacted, operators must petition the district court for appointment of appraisers to determine damage amounts

Three appraisers assess surface damages: one selected by operator, one by surface owner, and a third state-certified general real estate appraiser selected by the first two

If either party demands a jury trial and fails to receive a more favorable verdict than the appraisers' assessment, that party must pay all court costs including reasonable attorney fees

Declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately upon passage and approval