Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB2461

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/22/23  
Engrossed
3/21/23  
Refer
3/30/23  
Report Pass
4/13/23  
Enrolled
4/20/23  

Caption

State property; creating the Oklahoma Capitol Critical Infrastructure Act; modifying reference to Oklahoma Administrative Code; emergency.

Impact

The passage of HB 2461 signifies a shift in how law enforcement responsibilities are allocated in the Capitol areas. By granting exclusive enforcement authority to the Department of Public Safety over parking and law violations within the Capitol Park, the bill limits local government's jurisdiction, which traditionally had oversight over such matters. This change is poised to streamline law enforcement actions in these crucial public spaces, potentially enhancing both safety and security for visitors and employees alike.

Summary

House Bill 2461, known as the Oklahoma Capitol Critical Infrastructure Act, aims to enhance the management and enforcement of laws related to critical infrastructure within the State Capitol Park and State Capitol Complex. The bill primarily modifies existing definitions pertaining to critical infrastructure facilities and establishes the Department of Public Safety as the primary law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing laws within these areas. This legislative effort is positioned as a necessary enhancement of public safety, ensuring cohesive management of the Capitol's infrastructure.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2461 seems positive, particularly among supporters who view it as a logical consolidation of law enforcement authority that can lead to improved safety measures. However, there may also be concerns from local government advocates regarding the reduction in local autonomy and oversight, suggesting a contentious point of debate. Such sentiments reflect a broader dialogue regarding state vs. local governance, especially in matters concerning public safety frameworks.

Contention

While HB 2461 passed without notable opposition during its voting phases, with a unanimous vote in the Senate, there remain underlying tensions about the implications of removing local jurisdiction. Critics may argue that this centralization could lead to less tailored responses to local issues within law enforcement practices. The need for an emergency declaration for this act raises both urgency and questions concerning immediate impacts versus long-term governance strategies, highlighting the complex interplay between local needs and state mandates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB2461

State property; creating the Oklahoma Capitol Critical Infrastructure Act; modifying reference to Oklahoma Administrative Code; emergency.

OK SB623

Motor vehicles; modifying references to Service Oklahoma. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB623

Motor vehicles; modifying references to Service Oklahoma. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB2996

Retirement; Oklahoma Law Enforcement Retirement System; terms; references; emergency.

OK HB4013

Higher education capital financing; Higher Education Capital Financing Act; Oklahoma State System of Higher Education Capital Needs Evaluation Committee; Higher Education Capital Financing Fund; income tax apportionment; Oklahoma Capitol Improvement Authority; dual office holding; exemption; effective date; emergency.

OK SB1736

Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; modifying definition. Emergency.

OK SB1733

Oklahoma Open Records Act; modifying definitions. Effective date.

OK SB1399

State property; creating the Oklahoma Capital Assets Maintenance and Protection Act; creating the Capital Assets Maintenance and Protection Fund; creating certain board. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB1548

Oklahoma Drug Court Act; modifying requirements for administration of drug court programs.

OK HB2108

State government; Oklahoma Employee Insurance and Benefits Act; statutory references; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.