Oklahoma Senate Bill SB949

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/23/23
• Engrossed: 3/23/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Report Pass: 4/11/23

Caption

Cities and counties; allowing national motto in all public buildings. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB949 would create a new legal provision within Oklahoma Statutes that empowers local government entities to display the national motto prominently. This change would likely lead to a uniform approach across various local buildings where public interactions occur, thereby reinforcing the connection between local governance and national identity. The legislation also aims at establishing a standard regarding the display of the motto, providing guidelines on its visibility and significance within public spaces.

Summary

Senate Bill 949 (SB949) seeks to authorize counties and municipalities in Oklahoma to display the national motto of the United States in a prominent location within any government building under their jurisdiction. This legislation specifies that the display must align with the size and placement of the national motto as found in the United States Capitol Visitor Center. The bill is intended to instill a sense of national pride and identity in public spaces by ensuring that the national motto is visible in government buildings throughout the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB949 appears to be supportive among its proponents, who argue that the motto's display fosters patriotism and a sense of community identity. Supporters include legislative members and citizens who view the presence of the national motto as a positive affirmation of shared values. However, there may also be dissent from those who argue that such displays could infringe on the separation of church and state or add unnecessary political symbolism to governmental buildings.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB949 may revolve around the appropriateness and implications of displaying a national motto in public government spaces. Critics might raise concerns about whether such displays push particular ideological perspectives or could detract from issues plaguing local governance such as funding and resource allocation. The discussions may reflect broader tensions regarding religious and ideological representation within public spheres.