Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB398

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/15/23  
Engrossed
2/27/23  
Refer
3/29/23  

Caption

Veterans' employment and training; directing establishment of certain workforce training. Effective date.

Impact

This legislation directly impacts workforce development laws in Oklahoma by creating a structured program that leverages existing federal initiatives. By enabling local businesses to participate in the SkillBridge program, SB398 not only aims to support the economic integration of veterans but also seeks to alleviate workforce shortages in key sectors by tapping into a skilled labor pool. Businesses are expected to benefit from improved access to well-trained potential employees who are ready to fill gaps in the labor force.

Summary

Senate Bill 398 aims to enhance employment opportunities for transitioning servicemembers in Oklahoma by designating the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs as the principal assistance organization under the U.S. Department of Defense's SkillBridge program. The bill mandates the department to establish and maintain necessary certifications for the SkillBridge program, educate businesses about available training opportunities, and help match servicemembers with suitable positions post-training. The intent is to facilitate a smoother transition to civilian employment for those who have served in the military.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB398 is largely supportive among legislators and advocacy groups focused on veterans' issues, seeing it as a vital step toward bolstering employment pathways for those transitioning from military to civilian life. The unanimous vote in committee indicates strong bipartisan agreement on the importance of veteran employment and training programs. However, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of resources for implementation and whether businesses will fully engage in the opportunities presented.

Contention

While there appears to be broad support for SB398, potential contention may arise concerning the effectiveness of implementation and the extent to which the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs can meet its new responsibilities. Critics may question whether the state can adequately promote the SkillBridge program and connect sufficient numbers of servicemembers with available workforce training and employment opportunities, thereby achieving the legislative intent of the bill.

Companion Bills

OK SB398

Carry Over Veterans' employment and training; directing establishment of certain workforce training. Effective date.

Previously Filed As

OK SB398

Veterans' employment and training; directing establishment of certain workforce training. Effective date.

OK SB346

Law enforcement training; requiring certain training; providing for certain training; requiring participation in certain training. Effective date.

OK SB370

Long-term care; modifying certain restrictions on employment; modifying requirements for training and competency evaluation of nurse aides. Effective date.

OK SB721

Firearm training; clarifying language; directing certain approval; removing certain time inclusion; removing certain exemption requirement. Effective date.

OK SB175

Schools; naming act related to suicide awareness and training Evan's Law; modifying frequency of training. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB379

Law enforcement mental health wellness; requiring certain training. Effective date.

OK SB390

Sales tax; providing exemption for certain nonprofits that train rescue dogs and first responders. requiring certain training sufficiency. Effective date.

OK SB39

Health Care Workforce Training Commission; making an appropriation. Emergency.

OK HB2869

Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training; public funds; exemption; motor vehicles; hiring; effective date.

OK SB915

Medicaid; directing submission of State Plan amendment to provide eligibility to certain veterans. Effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.