Oklahoma Senate Bill SB30

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Presidential electors; modifying eligibility requirements for certain nominees. Emergency.

Impact

This bill aims to clarify and reinforce the procedures surrounding the nomination and certification of presidential electors in Oklahoma. It seeks to enhance the electoral process by safeguarding against potential issues that can arise due to delays in nomination processes. Additionally, it ensures that a recognized political party cannot nominate individuals who do not meet the constitutional requirement of being a natural born citizen, thereby addressing concerns regarding the legitimacy of candidates for the presidency and vice presidency.

Summary

Senate Bill 30 introduces amendments to the eligibility requirements for presidential electors as outlined in Oklahoma law. It specifies that nominees for presidential electors must be selected at a convention by their respective political parties and emphasizes the necessity for timely certification to the Secretary of the State Election Board. The bill mandates that the chair of the party must ensure the official certification of nominees is carried out no later than July 15 of the presidential election year, thus enforcing a strict deadline for the nomination process.

Contention

While SB30 presents itself as a measure to uphold constitutional standards, it may attract contention regarding its strict stipulation of eligibility criteria. Critics may argue that such conditions could inadvertently disenfranchise individuals stemming from particular backgrounds, especially those born to non-citizen parents, despite being born in the U.S. This provision may raise questions about inclusivity and the interpretation of citizenship in the political sphere, prompting debate on whether such regulations align with contemporary values of representation and fairness.