Oklahoma House Bill HB2266

Oklahoma 2024 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 legislation impacts existing statutes relating to driver licenses, specifically targeting those with medical concerns that may affect safe vehicle operation. It replaces previous regulations by repealing certain sections of the Oklahoma Statutes. Under this act, the Department can revoke or suspend licenses based on the outcomes of the medical evaluations, providing a systematic approach to assess and ensure the safety of all drivers on the road. Furthermore, the Department is tasked with maintaining records and developing standardized reporting forms and guidelines to facilitate these evaluations.

Summary

House Bill 2266, entitled the 'Shelby Johnson and Logan Deardorff Act of 2023', establishes new protocols for the Department of Public Safety regarding individuals who may be medically unfit to hold a driver license. The bill empowers the Department to require medical evaluations for individuals suspected of having conditions that could impair their driving capabilities. This requirement is initiated through a written notice sent to the individual's known address, allowing for a 30-day response time. Extensions may also be granted if necessary, highlighting the bill's adaptability to individual circumstances.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that it enhances road safety by ensuring that only medically fit individuals operate vehicles, opponents may raise concerns regarding privacy and the potential for misuse of medical information. Critics might argue that the broad authority granted to the Department could lead to unnecessary revocations, particularly for individuals with temporary conditions that do not impair their ability to drive safely. Additionally, the requirement to undergo examinations could be seen as a burden for those with valid medical concerns and who may feel stigmatized or discriminated against due to their health conditions.