SB 243 Summary: Seismic Exploration Regulation Act

• Amends Oklahoma Statutes 52 O.S. 2011, Sections 318.21-318.23 to comprehensively regulate seismic exploration activities in the state

• Requires operators to attempt to notify surface owners at least 15 days before seismic exploration begins, with notice sent by U.S. mail to addresses on file with county clerk

• Mandates operators file an affidavit with the county clerk within 90 days confirming notice was mailed and listing surface owners who could not be located

• Requires operators to include in notices an offer of damages compensation to surface owners; surface owners have 15 days to accept, reject, or be deemed to have rejected the offer

• Establishes cause of action for surface owners to recover reasonable damages through small claims or civil court if damages offer is rejected, with prevailing party entitled to recover attorney fees and litigation costs