Bill to Reduce Idle Natural Gas Wells Across Oklahoma Becomes Law

Senator Burns’ SB 132 establishes phased timeline to improve energy stewardship

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Bill 132, a measure by Senator George Burns, R-Pollard, has become law without the governor’s signature. The measure sets forth a phased timeline for the reduction and eventual elimination of idle or shut-in natural gas wells in Oklahoma.

Under SB 132, owners of shut-in gas wells must reduce the number of such wells by 25% by July 1, 2028, by 50% by July 1, 2031, and by 100% no later than July 1, 2035. The legislation empowers the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to promulgate rules necessary for the enforcement and implementation of these requirements.

“Idle gas wells pose both environmental and economic concerns,” said Sen. Burns. “This legislation strikes a balance between responsible resource development and the long-term health of our land, air, and water. It’s about stewardship and accountability.”

Senate Energy Committee Chairman Grant Green, R-Wellston, coauthored SB 132 and other measures aimed at addressing orphaned wells. 

"Oklahoma has more than 18,000 abandoned wells and that number continues to grow," Sen. Green said. "This is a reasonable step toward reversing that trend. By setting a gradual timeline, we’re giving operators clear expectations while ensuring they can no longer kick the can down the road indefinitely."

The bill also mandates that operators of wells that have been inactive for less than 20 years before the bill’s effective date must plug those wells within a 10-year window. Importantly, the timeline for compliance is continual, meaning changes in well ownership do not reset the clock.