Oklahoma Senate Bill SB741

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

The Oklahoma Electronic Toll Collection Act; creating certain exemption. Effective date.

Impact

The most notable impact of SB741 is on the collection and enforcement of tolls, which is expected to enhance compliance among drivers using Oklahoma's turnpikes. By structuring the penalties, including a set fee for violations, the bill sets out procedures compensating for penalties and administrative costs incurred due to toll evasion. This systematic approach may deter potential violations by presenting clearer consequences for not complying with toll regulations, thus providing the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority with stronger tools for revenue recovery.

Summary

Senate Bill 741 introduces significant amendments to the Oklahoma Electronic Toll Collection Act. This bill aims to streamline processes related to toll collection and enforcement while specifying certain exemptions. One key provision is the exemption that school buses will not be required to pay any tolls when using the state’s turnpikes. The proposed legislation also outlines the administrative duties of Service Oklahoma in assessing toll evasion penalties, thereby ensuring a clearer mechanism for penalty collection, including conditions under which the registration of vehicles related to unpaid tolls can be refused.

Contention

Despite its intentions, the bill may face contention regarding its approach to penalty enforcement and how it could affect vehicle owners. The provisions allowing for vehicle registration to be withheld if toll evasion penalties remain unpaid will likely be a point of debate, especially concerning the procedural rights of those contesting violations. Some stakeholders may argue that the bill could lead to unfair penalties if drivers are unable to contest situations adequately, such as vehicles being reported stolen during the time of violation.