Committee advances bill letting county assessors use aerial images; Oklahoma County assessor says it could cut field visits

The House A & B Finance Committee advanced Senate Bill 2143, which permits county assessors to use aerial — fixed‑wing or satellite — imagery to determine whether changes have been made to property, excluding drones.

Representative LePak, who presented the bill, said the imagery would help assessors identify visible changes and redirect inspection resources toward properties that require closer review. "It could answer a lot of questions that you might have," he told the committee.

Larry Stein, the Oklahoma County assessor, told the committee that the technology would be especially valuable in distant, rural areas. "The Google Earth images can help us discover the property as required by law," Stein said. He said continued use of physical inspections would occur when new properties come on line but argued that imagery would reduce travel for assessors and deputies. "With the cost of fuel and dangers and risks of traveling, it will prevent in Oklahoma County, it would prevent 70% of the properties having to be physically visited as current statute requires," Stein said.

Committee members asked whether the bill would allow assessors to reappraise properties based solely on photographs or whether physical follow-up would be required. Representative LePak said the bill allows use of imagery in lieu of an inspection but that assessors would likely follow up in cases where the images show unclear or significant changes. Representative Travis asked whether the sponsor would be willing to work with the bill to require follow‑up inspections in some cases; LePak said he would consult with stakeholders before the next hearing.

The committee opened the vote with no recorded opposition and reported SB 2143 do‑pass by voice/roll call, 9‑0.

Next steps: SB 2143 will move to the next legislative stage for consideration by the full chamber.