The Oklahoman
by Steve Lackmeyer
May 4, 2024
The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority on Friday reported it is evaluating whether it will follow a “Landowner’s Bill of Rights” signed into law this week that was inspired by what critics say is a heavy-handed approach to acquiring property to build new toll roads.
Rep. Eric Roberts, R-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman, authored HB 3159, which was signed into law by Gov. Kevin Stitt and is set to go into effect on Nov. 1. The law was sought by Norman-area residents who face losing their homes for construction of a new toll road as part of the turnpike authority’s ACCESS Oklahoma.
“This bill is a big win for the people of East Norman,” Menz said. “This law is necessary because for one reason or another, people's property is taken from them under the duress of eminent domain, and it's only fair that they are offered that property back if it goes unused.”
View the full article: Oklahoman.com
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