Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB21

Introduced
2/6/23  

Caption

County sheriffs; prohibiting certain action without expressed consent. Emergency.

Impact

The proposed legislation specifically modifies the dynamics of federal law enforcement's interaction with state and local law enforcement agencies. It implies that federal agents would require the sheriffs' consent to carry out certain actions outside federally designated areas. This is intended to assert state sovereignty and limits the federal government’s reach into local law enforcement, which proponents argue is crucial for maintaining local control and protecting constitutional rights. However, the actual effectiveness of this legislation would depend on how it is implemented and the willingness of local sheriffs to enforce these measures.

Summary

Senate Bill 21 (SB21) addresses the authority of county sheriffs in Oklahoma regarding law enforcement activities involving federal agents. It establishes that federal employees not designated as Oklahoma peace officers cannot conduct arrests, searches, or seizures without explicit written permission from the sheriff or their designee. This provision is aimed at reinforcing the jurisdictional authority of county sheriffs and ensuring local law enforcement retains primary control over public safety matters within their counties.

Contention

Critics of SB21 argue that the bill could hinder federal law enforcement efforts, particularly in instances where quick action is necessary, such as in drug trafficking or immigration enforcement cases. They express concerns that the requirements for written permission could delay critical operations and undermine public safety. Moreover, by mandating that district attorneys prosecute violations of this law without the discretion normally afforded to them, opponents view the bill as an overreach that could lead to inefficient legal processes and criminalize actions taken in good faith by federal agents.

Companion Bills

OK SB21

Carry Over County sheriffs; prohibiting certain action without expressed consent. Emergency.

Previously Filed As

OK SB21

County sheriffs; prohibiting certain action without expressed consent. Emergency.

OK SB30

Schools; requiring certain notifications; prohibiting use of certain names and pronouns without consent; prohibiting certain instruction in certain grades. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB932

Education; prohibiting certain employees, volunteers, and contractors from using certain names or pronouns without written consent. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB829

Schools; prohibiting certain acts by school or school employee without parental authorization. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB95

Schools; prohibiting school districts and charter schools from providing certain material to students without written consent. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB925

Public health; prohibiting certain actions by covered entity; providing certain immunity. Emergency.

OK SB627

Higher education; prohibiting certain institutions from taking certain actions due to a student's pregnancy. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB664

Campus carry of firearms; modifying allowable carry; removing requirement for certain written consent; allowing certain concealed carry; prohibiting certain denial; allowing certain prohibition. Effective date.

OK SB481

Security of election officials; prohibiting certain actions towards election officials. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB951

Counties and county officers; raising travel allowance for county commissioners and sheriffs. Emergency.

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