Understanding SB 1195: Protecting Oklahoma’s Racetracks
Covering news that matters, Fox 23 News at Six starts right now. There’s an effort at the state capitol to make racetracks and racing events immune to noise complaint lawsuits. Thanks for joining us. I’m Nathan Thompson, and I’m Shea Razi.
The change would impact people who live near drag strips and racetracks. Supporters say it’s needed legal protection for a growing industry here in Oklahoma. Fox 23’s Devin Lyon joins us in the studio with this newly filed legislation. Devin, you also talked to a legal expert about the proposed changes.
The Impacts on Local Communities
Oklahoma is home to several different types of racing and racing events. Two major ones were just hosted in Tulsa this month. There’s an economic benefit, but landowners also need to be aware of changes to property rights. It’s to protect racetracks against the complaints they frequently receive.
Gerald Brand is one of the racing engine builders behind the right-to-race bill, which he hopes protects racetracks from noise complaint lawsuits. The bill is written by state Senator Kendall Ciceri. I hate to say that we need this. Unfortunately, there have been racetracks that have gotten shut down for these very reasons, Brand said.
The Legal Framework of SB 1195
The bill states that anyone living within three miles of a racetrack, drag strip, or licensed racing event cannot file a noise complaint lawsuit unless they owned the property before the track was there. Additionally, the track must follow legal regulations for this immunity to apply.
When racetracks are built, they obtain permits, complete legal documentation, and operate facilities before housing and businesses start encroaching. Once this happens, noise complaints lead to closures, which this bill aims to prevent.
Events such as the Chili Bowl, Tulsa Shootout, and drag racing at Tulsa’s Expo Square and Tulsa Raceway Park generate millions in revenue for the local economy. Ciceri and Brand emphasize the need for legal protection for these lucrative events.
Concerns and Considerations for Property Owners
Tulsa business attorney James Wirth notes that if passed into law, the changes would have implications for property owners. They would need to be in place before making nuisance complaints. This affects adjacent owners, potentially reducing their property’s marketability.
Brand and Ciceri argue that these legal guardrails are necessary and hope they will promote more racing business in Oklahoma. It’s not about condoning negative behavior but protecting investments in racing, related machine shops, parts stores, and race car builders.
Oklahoma has closed two racetracks over the last two decades due to noise complaints. The bill faces a long journey before any legal change occurs. For the complete text, visit Fox 23 dot com.
The Economic Impact of Racing in Oklahoma
A report from the Oklahoma Senate states that the performance racing industry had a $440 million impact on the state in 2026. A major racing event has already taken place, with the Chili Bowl seeing a record turnout this year in Tulsa.
Schedule Your Initial Strategy Session Today
Interested in learning how this bill could affect you? Schedule a low-cost initial strategy session with one of our experienced Tulsa attorneys today by calling 918-879-1681. Let us guide you through the legal changes and what they mean for your investments and property rights.
