Office of Homeland Security; transferring the Office of Homeland Security from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to the Department of Public Safety. Emergency.
Impact
The implications of SB 1371 on state law involve significant revisions to the responsibilities and regulatory framework governing the Office of Homeland Security. The bill establishes the Oklahoma Homeland Security Revolving Fund, which is intended to finance the activities associated with emergency response and preparedness. It specifies that funding may come from various sources, including federal grants, state appropriations, and donations, thus creating a robust financial basis for homeland security initiatives. Moreover, it aims to enhance school security through targeted grants to educational institutions.
Summary
Senate Bill 1371 proposes the transfer of the Office of Homeland Security from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to the Department of Public Safety. This bill aims to consolidate efforts in managing state security, improving the efficiency of how the state responds to public safety threats, and ensuring coordinated efforts are made in emergency management. A comprehensive strategy will be implemented to protect the state from various threats, including terrorism and natural disasters, enhancing communication and operational effectiveness.
Sentiment
General sentiments surrounding SB 1371 reflect a desire for improved public safety and a more unified approach to emergency management across the state. Supporters believe that the consolidation of the Office of Homeland Security will lead to more effective coordination and resource allocation in the face of security challenges. Conversely, there are concerns about the centralization of power and resources, with some opponents arguing that local governments might lose their agency in managing specific security threats pertinent to their communities.
Contention
Notable points of contention within the discussions of SB 1371 relate to the control and funding allocation procedures enforced by the centralized office. Critics voice apprehension that the emphasis on state-level decision-making might undermine local responsiveness to unique security needs. There is also debate about the appropriateness of funding mechanisms outlined in the bill, with discussions on how well these will be implemented and how funds will be tracked to ensure they effectively address public safety concerns.
Public health and safety; director; Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; emergency powers of Governor; emergency proclamations; legislative approval; effective date.
School security; creating the School Resource Officer Grant Program; directing State Department of Education to administer; qualifications; law enforcement training. Effective date. Emergency.
Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; creating the Emergency Relief and Impacts Grant Program; establishing Emergency Relief and Imipacts Revolving Fund; emergency.
Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; making an appropriation; source; amount; creating certain special account; reports; appearance before certain joint committee; emergency.
Oklahoma Uniform Securities Act; clarifying membership of Oklahoma Securities Commission; modifying qualifications for certain member of Commission. Effective date. Emergency.
State government; authorizing the commission of certain peace officers; powers and duties; declaring officers are not employees of the Department of Public Safety; emergency.
State government; creating the Targeted Violence Prevention Act; authorizing the Department of Homeland Security and Oklahoma Counter Terrorism Intelligence Center to collect, analyze, and disseminate certain information to law enforcement and public safety agencies; codification; emergency.
Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; making an appropriation; source; amount; creating certain special account; reports; appearance before certain joint committee; emergency.