Oklahoma Senate Bill SB155

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/19/21
• Engrossed: 3/3/21
• Refer: 3/22/21
• Report Pass: 4/8/21
• Enrolled: 4/22/21
• Passed: 4/27/21

Caption

Supreme Court; requiring maintenance and publication of certain calendar. Effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB155 is expected to improve public access to court information, allowing for better monitoring of ongoing cases. By requiring regular updates to the calendar on the Supreme Court's website, the bill supports the notion that democratic processes should be visible and accessible to all stakeholders, thus likely improving civic engagement. The legislation targets the clarity of legal proceedings and aims to bridge the gap between the judiciary and the public, fostering greater trust in legal institutions.

Summary

Senate Bill 155 introduces a requirement for the Oklahoma Supreme Court to maintain and publicly publish a calendar that outlines scheduled cases and legal proceedings. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the judicial process by making it easier for the public, litigants, and attorneys to track important court dates and details. The bill specifies that the calendar should include the dates for oral arguments, hearings, and conferences, as well as information on the constitutionality of legislative acts and the associated case documentation.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB155 appears to be positive, as it aligns with broader efforts to increase transparency and accessibility within the judicial system. Proponents see it as a proactive step towards a more open and accountable judiciary, which can be beneficial in restoring public confidence. There could be a minority of dissenters who question the necessity of such a requirement or who might express concerns over the implications it has on the judicial workload and resources required to maintain this calendar.

Contention

While SB155 promotes transparency, potential points of contention might arise regarding the operational aspects of maintaining the required calendar. Questions about the workload for the court staff and the sufficient allocation of resources could surface during discussions. Additionally, some legal professionals might express concerns about whether the publication of case timelines and details could inadvertently affect case proceedings or parties involved. Overall, the legislative intent centers around improving public knowledge, but discussions may delve into the operational feasibility and impact on the courts.