Senator Burns’ Legislation Advances

OKLAHOMA CITY – A series of bills authored by Sen. George Burns, R-Pollard, have successfully passed out of their respective committees and are now eligible to be heard on the Senate floor. 

The legislation covers a range of issues, from groundwater permits and energy policy to firearm regulations and education standards.

“These measures address key concerns for Oklahomans, from ensuring responsible groundwater use and energy production to protecting Second Amendment rights and improving oversight in education,” Sen. Burns said. “I look forward to continuing the discussion on these issues as they move through the legislative process. These policies will have a lasting impact on Oklahoma’s energy industry, infrastructure, education system and personal freedoms. I appreciate my colleagues’ support in moving these measures forward and look forward to full Senate consideration.”

Key measures advancing include:

• Senate Bill 133 – Strengthens requirements for groundwater permit applicants by mandating valid identification, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport, to ensure accountability in water resource management.
• Senate Bill 132 – Establishes timelines for the management of shut-in gas wells, requiring gradual reductions in inactive wells and directing the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to enforce compliance measures.
• Senate Bill 123 – Removes the $500 administrative penalty assessed by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation for using illegal ammunition and eliminates restrictions on bullets larger than .45 caliber.
• Senate Bill 124 – Exempts firearm suppressors made in Oklahoma from federal regulation, provided they are clearly marked “Made in Oklahoma” and do not contain significant out-of-state materials.
• Senate Bill 131 – Requires electric utilities retiring coal-powered facilities to disclose replacement plans, with a preference for advanced nuclear or natural gas facilities, and mandates on-site spent fuel storage for nuclear projects.
• Senate Bill 365 – Modifies the powers and duties of the State Board of Education to include creating rules for issuing and revoking certificates for coaches. Defines a coach as the lead school district employee responsible for supervising and instructing students in a school-sponsored athletic activity.
• Senate Bill 41 – Dedicates the bridge over the Kiamichi River on U.S. Highway 259 as the PFC Lewis Othel Branscum Memorial Bridge in honor of the late soldier’s service and sacrifice.

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