Oklahoma Senate Bill SB97

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/14/23
• Engrossed: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 4/11/23
• Enrolled: 5/24/23
• Passed: 6/6/23

Caption

Dispute Resolution Act; clarifying information not subject to disclosure. Effective date.

Impact

The enactment of SB97 could significantly bolster the mediation process in Oklahoma by ensuring that mediators and participants can engage without fear of legal repercussions or forced disclosures. By formally categorizing the information shared in mediation as confidential, the law promotes a culture of openness where parties may freely communicate to reach resolutions without the risk of their conversations being used against them in court. The law's implementation could lead to increased mediation usage and potentially reduced litigation in disputes.

Summary

Senate Bill 97, known as the Dispute Resolution Act, seeks to amend existing Oklahoma law regarding the confidentiality of mediation proceedings. The bill clarifies that any information received by a mediator or related personnel during mediation is to be regarded as privileged and confidential, thus not subject to disclosure. This clarifies that discussions, participant attendance, and proposals shared in mediation will remain private and cannot be disclosed through judicial processes, enhancing the trust needed in mediation settings.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB97 appears to be predominantly supportive, as it aligns with the broader trend towards encouraging alternative dispute resolution methods, primarily mediation. Lawmakers backing the bill suggest it enhances the integrity of mediation by safeguarding sensitive discussions, thus promoting peaceful conflict resolution. However, there could be concerns regarding the extent of confidentiality and how it might affect certain legal proceedings if disputes arise from mediation agreements.

Contention

While SB97 generally receives favorable views, some opponents might raise concerns about the potential for abuse of the confidentiality measures contained within the bill. Questions may arise about whether certain disclosures need to be made in cases of wrongful conduct revealed during mediation sessions. These critics may worry that the bill could inadvertently shield bad actors from accountability by allowing them to hide behind the veil of confidentiality, thus demanding careful consideration of the balance between confidentiality and the need for disclosure in specific circumstances.