Energy

SB 469 modifies eligibility requirements for Oklahoma's Emission Reduction Technology Rebate Program, which provides up to 25% rebates for businesses implementing qualifying emission-reduction projects within the state. The bill clarifies submission deadlines (requiring documentation within six months after fiscal year-end completion) and adds a preliminary review process for applications before project funding is spent. It also specifies that applicants must have filed all required Oklahoma tax returns and maintain $1 million general liability insurance with workers' compensation coverage. The changes apply to businesses seeking rebates administered by the Department of Environmental Quality and Oklahoma Tax Commission, using funds from dedicated revolving funds. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.

SB 291 creates a refundable income tax credit for Oklahoma residents based on revenue growth from oil, natural gas, and corporate income taxes. If the State Board of Equalization certifies that revenue growth exceeds 10% in a year, the Oklahoma Tax Commission calculates a credit amount using a formula based on the number of individual and married-filing-jointly tax returns from the prior year. The credit is doubled for married couples filing jointly, and the Commission must publish the calculated amount within 45 days of certification. The credit applies to tax years starting in 2026, with a November 1, 2025 effective date.

HB 2312 prohibits operating drones below 400 feet over designated critical infrastructure facilities, including refineries, power plants, water treatment centers, pipelines, and telecom towers. It directly affects drone operators, requiring prior authorization from facility owners or operators to fly in these areas. Key provisions ban unauthorized low-altitude drone flights, contact with facilities, or interference with operations, with exceptions for government entities, facility owners, law enforcement, and FAA-authorized commercial operators. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025.