HB 1870 Summary

• Amends 52 O.S. 2011, Section 318.5 regarding negotiation of surface damages in oil and gas operations

• Requires that jury trials for surface damage disputes must be conducted and judgment entered within 6 months after filing a written demand for jury trial

• Prohibits courts from continuing jury trial proceedings to a later date beyond the 6-month window

• Maintains existing appraisal process for surface damage disputes but adds strict timeline requirement for jury trial resolution

• Declares an emergency to make the Act effective upon passage and approval