STATE OF OKLAHOMA

2nd Session of the 53rd Legislature (2012)

SENATE JOINT
RESOLUTION 58	By:	Ellis

AS INTRODUCED

A Joint Resolution urging the Governor and other governmental representatives to begin a negotiation process and cooperate with any federally recognized Indian tribe or nation claiming rights to any water of this state; and directing distribution.

WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of Section 1221 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes and as otherwise required by compact or treaty, any cooperative agreement involving the surface water and groundwater resources of this state shall become effective only upon the consent of the Oklahoma Legislature; and
WHEREAS, it is in the public interest of all the citizens of this state to encourage the discussion and negotiation process necessary to draft cooperative agreements with any and all federally recognized Indian tribes or nations claiming rights to any waters of this state instead of instituting or participating in lengthy and expensive legal proceedings resulting in negative outcomes for all parties and the citizens of this state.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 53RD OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE:
SECTION 1.  The Legislature urges the Governor, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, and any relevant agency of the state or federal government to begin a negotiation process and cooperate with any federally recognized Indian tribe or nation claiming rights to any water of this state.
SECTION 2.  The Secretary of State is hereby directed to distribute copies of this resolution to the Governor, the Secretary of Environment and the Chair of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.

53-2-2669	MJM	1/18/2012 9:10:51 AM