Bill to Streamline Sale of State Railroad Assets Heads to Governor's Desk
OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation carried by Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, to modernize the process for selling state-owned railroad assets passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives by a vote of 81-8. Senate Bill 341 directs the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to initiate a request for proposals process for the sale of any railroad assets owned by the state. Interested parties would have 120 days to respond. “This bill reflects our responsibility to manage state resources wisely and transparently,” Kerbs said. “By outlining a fair and open process for selling surplus rail properties, we’re not only protecting taxpayer interests but also creating opportunities for local development. It’s a practical solution that balances accountability with the potential for private-sector innovation.” Under the bill, ODOT is responsible for evaluating all proposals. If necessary, the department may conduct an economic impact or activity study as part of the evaluation process. The ODOT director must present a recommendation to the Transportation Commission within 90 days after reviewing the proposals. The measure also clarifies that any purchases made under a lease-purchase agreement must be approved by the Transportation Commission. Sen. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, is the Senate author of SB 341 and, alongside Rep. Kerbs, brings a longstanding commitment to transportation policy and infrastructure development as the measure moves through the legislative process. “With the Legislature’s approval of Senate Bill 341, we’re opening doors for economic development and growth by making it easier to transfer underutilized state-owned railroads to the private sector,” Frix said. “Putting these rail lines back in the hands of the private sector will strengthen our state’s railroads and our transportation system overall. This bill is an important step toward modernizing our rail infrastructure, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.” SB341 now moves to the governor's desk for consideration. If signed into law, it would go into effect July 1.