Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB230

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/9/23  
Engrossed
2/27/23  
Refer
3/29/23  
Report Pass
4/13/23  
Enrolled
4/27/23  

Caption

Emergency management; requiring emergency operations plan to include component for catastrophic health emergency. Effective date.

Impact

The bill modifies the Oklahoma Emergency Management Act of 2003, mandating that all state agencies develop and maintain comprehensive plans to protect their employees, ensuring preparedness against potential disasters. It also emphasizes the coordination of emergency management and hazard mitigation efforts with federal, state, and local entities. With provisions for mutual aid during emergencies, this legislation reinforces a structured approach to disaster management across various levels of government, enhancing the overall reaction capability during crises.

Summary

Senate Bill 230 aims to enhance the emergency management framework in Oklahoma by amending existing legislation to formally include specific components related to catastrophic health emergencies. This bill recognizes the increasing likelihood of disasters, whether natural or man-made, and establishes protocols for response and preparedness to safeguard public health and safety. A crucial aspect of this legislation is its directive for the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to compile annual reports related to the state's emergency preparedness status, thereby promoting accountability and continuous improvement in emergency response strategies.

Sentiment

Support for SB 230 was primarily driven by a recognition of the importance of comprehensive emergency management plans that incorporate strategies for addressing health-related catastrophes. The bill received unanimous support in the House during its third reading, which indicates a strong bipartisan consensus on the necessity of robust disaster preparedness measures. However, some critics express concerns regarding the effectiveness and readiness of existing infrastructure to implement these emergency plans.

Contention

Although SB 230 is largely supported, contention may arise around the feasibility of integrating these new requirements into current state operations. Local government entities may face challenges in aligning their resources and practices with the new mandates, which could lead to friction regarding the distribution of responsibilities and funding for emergency preparedness initiatives. The repeal of previous laws related to catastrophic health emergencies signifies a significant shift in how Oklahoma manages health crises, possibly raising questions about the adequacy of current policies to protect its citizens.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB230

Emergency management; requiring emergency operations plan to include component for catastrophic health emergency. Effective date.

OK HB2337

Public health and safety; director; Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management; emergency powers of Governor; emergency proclamations; Legislative approval; effective date.

OK HB3061

Public health and safety; powers and duties; Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management; scope of authority; emergency powers; Governor; proclamations; Legislature; effective date.

OK HB3059

Administrative Procedures Act; emergency rules; Oklahoma Emergency Management Act of 2003; Catastrophic Health Emergency Powers Act; timing provisions; emergency.

OK SB672

Emergency management; prohibiting Governor from closing businesses under certain circumstances; requiring due process for businesses ordered to close. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB541

Emergency management; prohibiting closing businesses; providing exception. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB2656

Public health and safety; director; Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; emergency powers of Governor; emergency proclamations; legislative approval; effective date.

OK HB2656

Public health and safety; director; Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; emergency powers of Governor; emergency proclamations; legislative approval; effective date.

OK SB1538

Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management; providing certain authority to certified law enforcement officers. Effective date.

OK SB913

Medical marijuana growing operations; requiring bond for grow operations. Emergency.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.