Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1059

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

Cemeteries; requiring certain utilization; requiring county maintenence in certain circumstances. Effective date.

Impact

The amendment aims to streamline the maintenance processes for cemeteries across Oklahoma counties, potentially reducing the burden on small local governments and ensuring that necessary cemetery maintenance is undertaken. By allowing commissioners to use county resources for this purpose, the bill also encourages a more unified standard for cemetery care. It addresses the need for public oversight in cases where tribal burials are involved, which is particularly sensitive and significant for Native American communities.

Summary

Senate Bill 1059 (SB1059) introduces amendments to 8 O.S. 2021, Section 143, relating to the maintenance and improvement of cemeteries within counties. The bill grants county commissioners the authority to utilize county resources, such as employees and equipment, to manage graves and maintain publicly owned cemeteries or other cemeteries not managed by private entities. This includes the stipulation that such actions may only be taken when there is a documented tribal burial presence in the area, ensuring respect for indigenous cultures.

Contention

While the bill seems to have a clear intention of improving cemetery management, the requirement for documented tribal burial presence might lead to concerns about the enforcement and verification processes. Furthermore, there may be implications regarding fees that could be charged for such services, which some opponents may view as a possible financial barrier for families dealing with funeral arrangements during a difficult time. The balance between public service and individual costs needs careful consideration to avoid alienating constituents.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB1644

Boating safety; requiring certain flag under certain circumstances. Effective date.

OK HB1924

Public safety; requiring Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority to maintain certain training platform; requiring creation, maintenance and certification of certain list; effective date.

OK HB1924

Public safety; requiring Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority to maintain certain training platform; requiring creation, maintenance and certification of certain list; effective date.

OK HB1051

Roads, bridges and ferries; requiring certain information be kept confidential; requiring utilities make certain information available; effective date.

OK HB1051

Roads, bridges and ferries; requiring certain information be kept confidential; requiring utilities make certain information available; effective date.

OK SB1805

Child custody; requiring appointment of guardian ad litem under certain circumstances. Effective date.

OK HB1590

Public safety; Haiden Fleming Memorial Act; requiring Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority to maintain certain training platform; requiring creation, maintenance and certification of certain list; repealer; effective date.

OK HB1590

Public safety; Haiden Fleming Memorial Act; requiring Oklahoma 9-1-1 Management Authority to maintain certain training platform; requiring creation, maintenance and certification of certain list; repealer; effective date.

OK HB3735

Transportation; requiring certain installation and maintenance of business access signs; effective date.

OK HB2230

Scrap dealers; requiring certain delay of payment for certain items sold; requiring retention of certain copy for certain period of time; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.