Oklahoma House Bill HB1986

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/23/21
• Engrossed: 3/10/21
• Refer: 3/17/21
• Report Pass: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Animals; requiring state agencies to enclose by fence certain land used for livestock grazing; effective date.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1986 is expected to enhance the management of state-owned lands utilized for grazing. By enforcing the requirement for proper fencing, the bill aims to reduce incidents of livestock straying onto public roads or neighboring properties, which can lead to accidents or disputes. This change may positively impact agricultural practices across the state, as clear regulations can lead to better livestock containment and welfare.

Summary

House Bill 1986 mandates that any state agency or lessee of land used for livestock grazing must enclose that land with a fence or other suitable barriers to ensure livestock safety and containment. This legislation aims to establish clear responsibilities for land management, holding state entities accountable for maintaining enclosures for livestock. Additionally, it allows for cost-sharing contracts with adjacent landowners to manage shared fencing responsibilities, promoting collaboration among parties involved in agriculture.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1986 appears to be generally favorable, particularly among agricultural stakeholders who recognize the importance of responsible livestock management. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step towards ensuring the safety of both livestock and the public. However, there may be concerns from smaller landowners regarding compliance costs or the implications of shared fencing contracts.

Contention

Despite the overall support, some contention may arise from interpretations of joint responsibilities between state agencies and private landowners. The requirement for maintenance of fencing and the potential financial burdens of shared costs may lead to discussions around equitable contributions and responsibilities. As with many agricultural regulations, the bill could face scrutiny regarding its feasibility for implementation across varying types of agricultural operations.