Oklahoma Senate Bill SB121

Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25
• Failed: 2/11/25

Caption

State parks; transferring the Hugo Lake Park to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. Effective date.

Impact

The passage of SB121 is expected to streamline the operations of Hugo Lake Park by placing its management firmly within a state department dedicated to tourism and recreation. This could result in improved funding and resource allocation, as the Department of Tourism and Recreation can draw on state resources and expertise in managing recreational sites. The bill also allows the Department to establish a revolving fund, which is crucial for ongoing operational needs and maintenance, enhancing the park's viability as a recreational site for residents and tourists alike.

Summary

Senate Bill 121 aims to transfer the management and ownership of Hugo Lake Park to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department by January 1, 2026. This involves the transfer of all properties related to the park, including land and contractual obligations, to ensure that the park is operated under the direct supervision of the state tourism agency. The bill enables the Department to establish necessary funds for the park's financial operations, ensuring that it has the resources needed to maintain and manage the area effectively.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes provisions that exempt the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department from any tort claims that arise prior to the transfer date. This aspect has raised concerns among some stakeholders, as it limits accountability for issues that may have taken place at the park before the transfer. Additionally, with the transition of management, there may be apprehensions regarding the continuity of services and the handling of existing contractual relationships with nonprofit organizations that were previously responsible for park operations. Stakeholders may seek further clarification on how these changes will affect current agreements and the overall park experience.