Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB4299

Introduced

2/7/22

Refer

2/8/22

Caption

Volunteer fire departments; Oklahoma Volunteer Fire Departments Act; effective date.

Impact

The enactment of HB 4299 is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of volunteer fire departments by providing clearer guidelines and support systems. This could include training opportunities, funding mechanisms, and resources aimed at improving response times and effectiveness during emergencies. The bill has the potential to strengthen community resilience by ensuring that fire departments are adequately equipped to handle potential threats to public safety, promoting a safer environment for all residents.

Summary

House Bill 4299 establishes the Oklahoma Volunteer Fire Departments Act, which is designed to provide a formal framework for the operation and governance of volunteer fire departments across the state of Oklahoma. This Act acknowledges the vital role that these departments play in ensuring public safety, particularly in rural and underserved areas where professional fire services may be limited. The bill emphasizes the importance of supporting local volunteers who dedicate their time and resources to fire prevention and emergency response efforts.

Contention

However, discussions surrounding HB 4299 may arise regarding the allocation of resources and the potential for increased state oversight of volunteer fire departments. Some stakeholders may argue that while the intent of the bill is to bolster public safety, it could unintentionally place limitations on the autonomy of these volunteer organizations. Concerns may also be raised about ensuring equitable access to funding and training, particularly in communities that might struggle to meet the new standards set forth in the Act.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB1426

Volunteer firefighters; Oklahoma Volunteer Firefighters Act of 2025; effective date.

OK HB1988

Fire departments; creating the Volunteer Fire Department Reform Act of 2021; effective date.

OK HB2001

Fire departments; creating the Volunteer Fire Department Reform Law of 2021; effective date.

OK SB00233

An Act Adding Volunteer Fire Departments And Volunteer Firefighters To The Partnership Plan.

OK SB195

Revise volunteer fire department and volunteer firefighter law

OK S1258

Exempts certain volunteer fire companies and volunteer fire departments from open public records act.

OK S569

Exempts certain volunteer fire companies and volunteer fire departments from open public records act.

OK HB171

An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Elective Credit For Volunteering With Local Fire Departments.

OK HB1942

Public health and safety; requiring the dispatch of certain calls to volunteer fire departments; effective date.

OK HB23

Relating to volunteer fire departments and volunteer rescue squads; to make legislative findings that volunteer fire departments and volunteer rescue squads fulfill a public purpose; to authorize volunteer fire departments and volunteer rescue squads to purchase kitchen equipment and supplies for their stations; to authorize a tax credit for mileage to firefighters and squad members; and to specify that county commissions are not responsible for the expenditures and activities of volunteer fire departments and volunteer rescue squads.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.