Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB34

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/9/23  
Engrossed
3/9/23  
Refer
3/29/23  
Report Pass
4/13/23  
Enrolled
4/20/23  

Caption

Public health; updating statutory references relating to prevention of youth access to tobacco. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB34 would solidify the framework for local governments to enact strict ordinances related to the sale and distribution of tobacco products to youths. This update is crucial in ensuring that municipal regulations align with state-level mandates, ultimately fostering a more robust approach to preventing underage tobacco use. The bill defines the necessary reporting mechanisms to be followed by local authorities, thereby enhancing coordination between state and local enforcement agencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 34 aims to amend existing public health laws relating to the prevention of youth access to tobacco products. The bill seeks to update statutory references within Oklahoma law, as outlined in Section 1-229.23, specifically addressing the responsibilities of cities and towns regarding the enforcement of ordinances that prohibit and penalize actions related to tobacco access by minors. The legislation emphasizes the importance of compliance with local regulations while requiring cities to provide necessary information to the ABLE Commission for effective oversight.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB34 is largely supportive, reflecting a strong bipartisan agreement on the necessity to protect youth from the dangers of tobacco usage. Lawmakers from both sides have expressed their commitment to public health initiatives and recognize the importance of regulating tobacco access as a key public health issue. Surveillance on youth tobacco use statistics underlies the urgency of these measures, suggesting that lawmakers are prioritizing health outcomes over potential pushback from tobacco retailers.

Contention

While there appears to be widespread agreement on the bill's objectives, some stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the economic implications for local businesses affected by stringent tobacco regulations. There may be discussions about the practicality of enforcement, especially concerning smaller retailers who might feel the burden of compliance. Overall, debate around SB34 focuses on balancing public health responsibilities with business interests, particularly in communities where tobacco sales are a significant part of the local economy.

Companion Bills

OK SB34

Carry Over Public health; updating statutory references relating to prevention of youth access to tobacco. Effective date.

Previously Filed As

OK SB34

Public health; updating statutory references relating to prevention of youth access to tobacco. Effective date.

OK HB1897

Public health and safety; modifying statutory references; modifying name of certain act; effective date.

OK SB322

Libraries; digital or online library database resources; updating statutory language. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB2165

Children; tobacco products; fines; requiring violator to attend program or class; city ordinances; effective date.

OK HB2182

Public health and safety; repealer; prevention and control of disease; effective date.

OK SB601

Cigarette and tobacco products; enforcement of tobacco tax laws; industry advisory committee; purchase of tobacco products; seizure of untaxed tobacco products; procedures. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB442

Health benefit plan directories; directing plans to publish certain information in a publicly accessible manner; requiring reporting to Insurance Commissioner. Effective date.

OK SB643

Oklahoma New Motor Vehicle Commission; updating references. Effective date.

OK SB912

Oklahoma Right to Shop Act; defining term; updating statutory references and conforming language. Effective date.

OK SB121

Department of Corrections; updating certain institutional facility name. Effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.