Gov. Kevin Stitt today vetoed HB 3194, which would have required the installation of metering devices on all permitted groundwater wells in the state of Oklahoma. Oklahoma Farm Bureau asked the governor to veto the bill after it unexpectedly passed the Senate and was sent to the governor in the middle of stakeholder negotiations.

Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Rodd Moesel released the following statement today, praising the governor's veto:

"Oklahoma Farm Bureau members thank Gov. Kevin Stitt for standing up for Oklahomans' property rights today with his veto of HB 3194.

"As family farmers and ranchers who care for and rely upon our state's natural resources, Farm Bureau members recognize that groundwater is a vital private property right in Oklahoma and is essential to ensuring the security of the United States' food supply. Any changes to how those rights can be utilized should be developed through thoughtful consideration from stakeholders around the state.

"Oklahoma Farm Bureau is committed to achieving the goal of responsible water use and conservation, and we look forward to working on this shared goal with the legislature in the future."