Oklahoma House Bill HB2266

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Motor vehicles; creating the Shelby Johnson and Logan Deardorff Act of 2023; allowing Department of Public Safety to require certain exams for medical fitness; effective date.

Impact

The act aims to enhance road safety by ensuring that drivers are medically fit to operate vehicles. The process established by the bill requires individuals to submit to examinations that could lead to the suspension or revocation of driving privileges if they fail to comply or if the examinations indicate they pose a risk. This will likely affect numerous individuals, particularly those with known medical conditions, and necessitate awareness and compliance from healthcare providers and law enforcement professionals regarding the new reporting and examination processes.

Summary

House Bill 2266, known as the 'Shelby Johnson and Logan Deardorff Act of 2023', introduces significant changes to the procedures related to the issuance and retention of driver licenses in Oklahoma. The bill empowers the Department of Public Safety to demand medical examinations from individuals suspected of being unfit to drive. It stipulates that if the Department has reason to believe a driver's medical condition jeopardizes their ability to operate a vehicle safely, they can mandate an examination after a 30-day written notice is provided. This may include assessments of vision, driving skills, and physical or mental evaluations depending on the circumstances.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention may arise concerning the implications for patient privacy and the responsibilities imposed on medical professionals under this law. The bill stipulates penalties for those who file false reports while granting immunity to good faith reporters. Critics may argue this could lead to over-reporting or unnecessary medical examinations, causing distress among individuals assessed. Additionally, the bill's provisions for possible restrictions on licenses raise questions about fairness and the adequacy of appeals processes, which could impact individuals' mobility and independence.