HB 2451 Summary

• Establishes a moratorium on the sale or exportation of surface water and/or groundwater outside Oklahoma for a five-year period beginning on the effective date (November 1, 2014) or until completion of a comprehensive state hydrological study, whichever occurs first.

• Prohibits state agencies, authorities, elected and appointed officials from contracting for or selling/exporting surface water or groundwater outside the state without specific legislative consent.

• Exempts pre-existing contracts executed before the effective date that received legislative approval or were authorized by law, provided they do not exceed 8 million gallons per month.

• Excludes water contained in agricultural crops, animal and dairy products, beverages, and processed/manufactured products or items transported in containers from the moratorium restrictions.

• Amends 82 O.S. 2011, Section 1B to clarify language relating to surface water and groundwater management.