Oklahoma House Bill HB4433

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22

Caption

Waters and water rights; requiring Oklahoma Water Resources Board make certain determination before allowing certain permits; effective date.

Impact

If enacted, HB 4433 would significantly impact the regulations governing water rights and resource management in Oklahoma. By necessitating an assessment of alternatives to fresh groundwater, the legislation aims to safeguard this essential resource from over-extraction for oil and gas recovery. This measure is intended to promote sustainability in water use in light of the growing demands on freshwater supplies, particularly in areas where water scarcity is a concern.

Summary

House Bill 4433, introduced by Patzkowsky, addresses the management of water resources in Oklahoma specifically pertaining to the enhanced recovery of oil and gas. The bill mandates that applicants seeking permits for the use of fresh groundwater for these recovery processes must provide comprehensive documentation, including an economic study analyzing the feasibility of using fresh water compared to alternative water sources. This requirement aims to ensure that the use of fresh groundwater is only approved when no better alternatives are available, thereby promoting responsible resource management.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 4433 primarily revolve around the balance between resource extraction and environmental protection. Proponents of the bill argue that it establishes necessary safeguards for Oklahoma's water resources, ensuring that fresh groundwater is used judiciously. Conversely, critics may assert that the additional requirements could complicate the permitting process and potentially hinder oil and gas development activities, which are significant for the state's economy. The assessment criteria set forth in the bill could lead to disputes over the definitions of 'economically viable alternatives' and transparency in the evaluation process.