OK SB563

Amends 69 O.S. 2011, Section 1401 to allow public utilities and cable television systems to use Oklahoma public roads and highways for erecting poles, attaching equipment, and laying pipes and conduits, subject to Department of Transportation and county commissioner approval.

Grants "prior rights" to utilities with facilities on private easements that become encompassed within public rights-of-way due to road construction, reconstruction, or improvement, with relocation costs paid by the Department.

Requires utilities complying with the Underground Damage Prevention Act to repair or replace any damage to public roads or rights-of-way caused by their installation, placement, or maintenance activities.

Defines "public utility" and "cable television systems" to include entities organized under Oklahoma law or tribally owned utilities whose users are within Oklahoma, excluding out-of-state entities regulated by the Corporation Commission.

Becomes effective November 1, 2015.