OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. — Five Native American tribes voiced opposition to a bill proposed in the Oklahoma state legislature that modifies best management practices for poultry waste.

The bill was proposed in early February and was met with pushback from the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole Nations. Leaders from the five tribes wrote to Oklahoma Senators Greg Treat, Greg McCortney and Brent Howard on March 18, detailing their concerns that the legislation “threatens to undermine safe drinking water and healthy environments” across their reservations.

The current Oklahoma Registered Poultry Feeding Operations Act prohibits the discharge of poultry waste into the waters of the state. The introduced bill would remove such prohibitions.

“By removing this common-sensical prohibition, shielding polluters from liability, and replacing these protections with vague rules to be developed by a relatively small state agency, HB 4118 could damage Oklahoma’s ability to keep our waters clean,” the tribes wrote.

Additionally, the bill grants prospective and retroactive legal immunity to poultry integrators, employees and contractors whose land application practices are in compliance with a state-approved nutrient management plan.

The tribes noted that they have always supported and honored the work of poultry farmers and the agriculture industry. Adding that, like any industry, farmers have a responsibility to be good neighbors and to protect the environment.

“We urge Oklahoma lawmakers to maintain the balance between agricultural interests and the necessity of environmental protection. House Bill 4118 fails to strike this balance. We ask that it not advance in the Oklahoma Senate,” the letter concluded.