Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1800

Introduced
2/7/22  
Refer
2/8/22  
Report Pass
3/3/22  
Engrossed
3/10/22  
Refer
3/28/22  
Refer
4/14/22  

Caption

Employment Security Act of 1980; omnibus; modifying operational procedures. Effective date.

Impact

The enactment of SB1800 is expected to revise operational protocols within the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission. A significant change involves allowing claims and employer protests to be filed electronically. These modifications could potentially expedite the processing of claims and appeals, thereby improving the experience for both claimants and employers. The repeal of outdated definitions and provisions is also indicative of the state's effort to keep its laws relevant and reflective of current practices in employment security administration.

Summary

SB1800, also known as the Employment Security Act of 1980 update, introduces significant amendments to the existing Oklahoma Employment Security laws. The bill aims to streamline processes related to unemployment claims, making provisions for digital filing and adapting language for gender neutrality. Notably, the amendments seek to eliminate obsolete definitions and remove complexities in the filing and appeals processes. By modernizing the language and operational procedures, the bill intends to provide a more efficient framework for handling employment security matters in Oklahoma.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB1800 appears to be supportive, particularly among those advocating for modernized practices in state administration. Stakeholders view the bill as a proactive measure to improve the efficiency of the unemployment benefits system, which has long been critiqued for bureaucracy. However, as with any legislative change, there may be concerns among certain groups, particularly employers, regarding their responsibilities and compliance with new electronic reporting requirements.

Contention

While the bill mainly enjoys bipartisan support, some points of contention likely arise around the responsibilities it places on employers regarding electronic communications and filing. The removal of certain provisions could create apprehensions for businesses that previously benefitted from those stipulations. Furthermore, the push towards digitization may raise questions about accessibility for all claimants, especially those who may not have consistent access to digital resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB924

Employment Security Act of 1980; modifying procedures for claims. Effective date.

OK HB3596

Labor; modifying various provisions of the Employment Security Act of 1980; repealer; effective date.

OK SB911

Employment Security Act of 1980; modifying conditional factors. Effective date.

OK HB4413

Employment Security Act; definitions; extended base period; employing unit; unemployment; claims; effective date.

OK HB2456

Labor; Employment Security Act of 1980; rate reduction; increasing penalties; removing expenditure limit; effective date.

OK HB2456

Labor; Employment Security Act of 1980; rate reduction; increasing penalties; removing expenditure limit; effective date.

OK SB794

Oklahoma Employment Security Commission; deleting gender references; making e-file preference for filing; benefit eligibility; overpayments. Effective date.

OK HB3595

Labor; Employment Security Act of 1980; modifying seeking and accepting of work; requiring Commission to maintain online jobs center; requiring cross-check and investigation of claims; effective date.

OK SB1526

Securities; modifying provisions of the Oklahoma Subdivided Land Sales Code. Effective date.

OK SB1361

Securities; modifying certain exemptions; requiring certain notice filings; updating statutory references. Effective date.

Similar Bills

OK HB4413

Employment Security Act; definitions; extended base period; employing unit; unemployment; claims; effective date.

OK SB924

Employment Security Act of 1980; modifying procedures for claims. Effective date.

OK SB794

Oklahoma Employment Security Commission; deleting gender references; making e-file preference for filing; benefit eligibility; overpayments. Effective date.

OK HB3596

Labor; modifying various provisions of the Employment Security Act of 1980; repealer; effective date.