Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1107

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Owners' associations; prohibiting deed restrictions or covenants that prohibit display of political signs; authorizing certain rules regarding display and removal of political signs. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB1107 would have significant implications for existing regulations governing homeowners’ associations in Oklahoma. Specifically, it would restrict the ability of these associations to enforce rules that may suppress the political speech of their members. The bill stipulates that an owners’ association may create reasonable regulations regarding the display of political signs, such as limiting the size and duration of displays, but cannot completely prohibit them. This legal protection ensures that homeowners' rights to political expression are safeguarded and could lead to changes in how owners’ associations draft their governing documents.

Summary

Senate Bill 1107 aims to enhance the rights of homeowners by prohibiting owners’ associations from implementing deed restrictions or covenants that limit the display of political signs on private properties. The bill acknowledges the importance of political expression and aims to ensure that homeowners can freely display their political opinions during elections or referendums. By endorsing the display of political signs, SB1107 seeks to strengthen democratic engagement and participation among homeowners within community associations.

Contention

The passage of SB1107 may generate debates among legislators and community members regarding the balance of power between homeowners and their associations. Proponents of the bill argue that it protects essential democratic rights and prevents censorship of political opinions. However, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for disputes within neighborhoods and the implications for aesthetics and property values, as unrestricted displays of political signs could lead to visual clutter. Thus, while the bill aims to support free political expression, it also opens the floor for discussions on community standards and governance.