The state’s largest farm organization thanked Gov. Mary Fallin for signing a bill reorganizing the state’s water resources board at a ceremonial bill signing June 11.
Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Mike Spradling praised the governor for signing SB 965.
“Gov. Fallin understands the importance of water for life and economic development all across our state,” Spradling said. “The regional representation provided by SB 965 will ensure all Oklahomans have the opportunity for their voices to be heard on water issues.”
SB 965 changes representation on the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to regional-based representation. The nine seats on the board will represent nine geographic regions, including individual seats for the Oklahoma City and Tulsa metropolitan areas.
The board is currently comprised of representation according to Oklahoma’s five congressional districts with four additional at-large positions.
Sen. Bryce Marlatt, R-Dist. 27, and Rep. Mike Jackson, R-Dist. 40, authored the bill. Gov. Fallin formally signed the bill into law May 31.
The Oklahoma Water Resources Board will transition to the new system, allowing current appointees to fulfill their current appointments.
