Oklahoma Senate Bill SB317

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/18/21
• Refer: 2/18/21
• Report Pass: 3/3/21
• Engrossed: 3/10/21
• Refer: 3/22/21
• Report Pass: 4/7/21
• Enrolled: 4/19/21
• Passed: 4/22/21

Caption

Electrical License Act; adding definition of student electrical intern. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB 317 will amend several existing statutes related to electrical work and licensing. The changes are set to improve the oversight of electrical work conducted in Oklahoma, particularly in areas where a nationally recognized electrical code has not been adopted. The bill provides the Construction Industries Board with regulatory authority over installations and inspections in regions without local codes, ensuring a level of consistency and safety across the state. Additionally, it ensures that electrical work involving student interns is conducted safely and under qualified supervision, aiming to protect both the interns and the public.

Summary

Senate Bill 317 is an act that modifies the existing Electrical License Act in Oklahoma. It introduces the definition of a 'student electrical intern,' who is defined as anyone over the age of sixteen enrolled in a recognized work-ready program. The bill aims to facilitate training opportunities for future electricians, allowing one student intern per job site to work under direct supervision of a licensed journeyman or contractor. The act establishes clear distinctions between various roles and responsibilities within electrical work, aiming to enhance safety and training for new entrants in the profession.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB 317 appears generally positive, based on the voting history and discussions from various legislative sessions. The overwhelming support reflected in the vote—where the bill passed the House with 92 yeas and only 1 nay—indicates consensus among lawmakers about the importance of increasing training opportunities for aspiring electrical workers. However, some concerns were raised regarding the extent of oversight by the Construction Industries Board, suggesting a moderate level of contention among local jurisdictions about enhanced state authority.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention is the bill’s provisions that extend state control over inspection and enforcement in political subdivisions that have not adopted their own electrical codes. Critics argue this could undermine local autonomy and potentially lead to inconsistencies in how electrical work is approved in different communities. Supporters, meanwhile, contend that uniform standards promote safety and ensure that all electrical work meets the necessary codes, ultimately protecting the public.