HB 1221 Summary

• Creates the State Accounts for Federal Expenditures (SAFE) Act to establish SAFE Accounts in the State Treasury for managing certain federal funds received by state agencies beginning November 1, 2025.

• Requires agencies applying for competitive grants through Grants.gov to notify legislative leaders and the Governor before application, and prohibits drawing down grant funds without prior Legislature approval by concurrent resolution.

• Mandates Legislature hold formal hearings and approve by concurrent resolution any federal funds provided through legislation as monetary relief, with agencies required to notify the federal government if funds are not approved.

• Exempts the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for competitive grants advancing projects on the 8 Year Construction Work Plan or provided by the Federal Railroad Administration, and exempts temporary increases to existing programs and unemployment dollars.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2025, with emergency declaration allowing immediate effect upon passage; amends Sections 34.36 and 34.95 of Title 62 to require agencies report on competitive grants, federal legislation funds, and block grant money in budget submissions and performance reviews.