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HB 1666

Public health and safety; Underground Facilities Damage Preventions Act; modifying definition of excavate; effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Cantrell and 1 co-sponsor

Oklahoma expands the definition of "excavation" to require more activities to notify utility locating services before disturbing ground, increasing underground facility damage prevention requirements.

Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/18/2025
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1666

Legislative bill overview

HB 1666 modifies Oklahoma's Underground Facilities Damage Prevention Act by expanding the definition of "excavate" to include additional activities that could damage underground utilities. The bill became law in May 2025 without the Governor's signature, indicating it passed with sufficient legislative support to override a potential veto.

Why is this important

Underground utility damage costs billions annually in the U.S. and poses serious public safety risks, including electrocution, gas explosions, and service interruptions. By broadening what constitutes "excavation" requiring notification to utility locating services, the bill aims to prevent more accidents and reduce liability for property owners and contractors.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Expanding "excavate" could capture more activities than stakeholders anticipated, potentially requiring unnecessary utility calls for minor ground disturbance
  • Compliance burden: Contractors and property owners may face increased costs and delays if more routine activities now require utility locating services
  • Practical enforcement: Unclear whether the expanded definition creates ambiguity about which activities genuinely pose underground facility risks versus minimal threat activities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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