Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB966

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/16/23  
Engrossed
2/27/23  
Refer
3/29/23  
Refer
3/29/23  

Caption

Statewide radio systems; requiring certain plan creation and transmission; adding references to the Statewide Radio Strategic Plan and the Statewide Interoperable Radio Communications Governance Body. Effective date.

Impact

The passage of SB966 will modify state laws regarding public safety communications, specifically by introducing the idea of a statewide governance structure for the management of radio systems. This change is projected to lead to better-coordinated emergency services across the state, establishing standard protocols and systems that facilitate more efficient communication during critical incidents. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for a revolving fund dedicated to supporting the implementation and maintenance of these public safety communication systems, potentially leading to long-term cost savings for the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 966 addresses the need for improved radio communications within Oklahoma's public safety sector by establishing a framework for better interoperability among various public service agencies. The bill amends existing statutes to create a Land Mobile Radio Public Safety Interoperability Cooperative, a governance body tasked with overseeing the integration and management of statewide radio systems. By fostering collaboration among different state departments, the bill aims to streamline communication processes and enhance service delivery across various jurisdictions.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB966 appears positive among the legislative body, as it received overwhelming support during voting, passing with no opposition. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary advancement for public safety, emphasizing the importance of reliable communication systems in emergency response situations. There may be some concerns regarding the adaptability of local agencies to the new governance model, but advocates believe that the benefits of a cohesive statewide strategy will outweigh these potential challenges.

Contention

While the discussions leading to the passage of SB966 have generally been supportive, there may be contention regarding operational specifics and funding allocations as the plan is implemented. Questions around how effectively the new governance body will function and the degree of autonomy retained by local agencies have been raised. Stakeholders will likely need to address these concerns to ensure that the envisioned interoperability becomes a reality, meeting the distinct needs of diverse communities across Oklahoma.

Companion Bills

OK SB966

Carry Over Statewide radio systems; requiring certain plan creation and transmission; adding references to the Statewide Radio Strategic Plan and the Statewide Interoperable Radio Communications Governance Body. Effective date.

Previously Filed As

OK SB966

Statewide radio systems; requiring certain plan creation and transmission; adding references to the Statewide Radio Strategic Plan and the Statewide Interoperable Radio Communications Governance Body. Effective date.

OK SB516

Charter schools; creating the Statewide Charter School Board; providing for succession to certain contracts. Effective date.

OK HB2076

Charter schools; creating the Statewide Charter School Board; repealers; effective dates; emergency.

OK HB1590

Public safety; Haiden Fleming Memorial Act; requiring Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority to maintain certain training platform; requiring creation, maintenance and certification of certain list; repealer; effective date.

OK HB2673

Schools; statewide system of student assessments; adding optional career-readiness assessments for certain students; effective date; emergency.

OK HB1924

Public safety; requiring Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority to maintain certain training platform; requiring creation, maintenance and certification of certain list; effective date.

OK HB1784

Public finance; creating the Information Services Agency; making Information Services Division a separate and distinct agency; modifying references to Division; effective date.

OK HB1897

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

OK HB1026

State government; salaries of statewide elected officials; limiting certain salary amounts to certain time period; effective date.

OK HB2860

State government; statewide elected officer salaries; limiting certain salary amounts to certain time period; benchmarks; effective date.

Similar Bills

OK SB966

Statewide radio systems; requiring certain plan creation and transmission; adding references to the Statewide Radio Strategic Plan and the Statewide Interoperable Radio Communications Governance Body. Effective date.

OK HB2319

Statewide radio system; creating the Statewide Interoperable Radio Communications System Revolving Fund; effective date.

OK HB2240

Public safety; creating the Statewide Interoperable Radio Communications System Fund; requiring needs assessment for a statewide interoperable radio communications system; effective date.

OK SB145

Oklahoma Wireless Information Network; transferring from DPS to Office of Homeland Security. Effective date.

OK HB2710

Statewide radio systems; creating the Oklahoma Emergency Communications Act; defining terms; effective date.

OK SB488

State government; creating the Office of Homeland Security within the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management.