Governor Henry Approves Dam Construction

NewsOn6.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Governor Henry signed into law on Monday two pieces of legislation that will finance construction of dams in Tulsa and rural Oklahoma.

The proposals were originally approved by the Legislature last year, but were later struck down by the Oklahoma Supreme Court on a technical issue regarding the legislation's construction.

Senate Bill 239 by Sen. Mike Mazzei, R-Tulsa, and Rep. Ken Miller, R-Edmond, authorizes a $25 million bond issue to construct low-water dams on the Arkansas River in Tulsa. The new infrastructure will help the city with its river improvement efforts.

"I think development of the Arkansas is critical to the continued prosperity of Tulsa and Oklahoma, and the low-water dams are key components of the development effort," said Governor Henry. "It's a great investment for Tulsa, and what's good for Tulsa is good for the state of Oklahoma."

Senate Bill 238 by Sen. Mike Johnson, R-Kingfisher, and Miller also authorizes a $25 million bond issue for conservation dams across rural Oklahoma.

"These structures are desperately needed in rural Oklahoma. Conservation dams can help protect farmers, ranchers and other landowners from disastrous losses, particularly in times of inclement weather and flooding. This investment will pay many dividends in the years to come," said Governor Henry.

Governor Brad Henry also signed the following bills Monday:

HB 1462, relating to schools and vision screening;
HB 1465, relating to hunting;
HB 1884, relating to waters and water rights;
HB 1913, relating to roads;
HB 2087, relating to cities and towns;
SB 270, relating to children; and
SB 476, relating to the electronic filing of bills and resolutions.