Oklahoma Enacts New Laws Effective January 1, 2025

Oklahoma Enacts New Laws Effective January 1, 2025

MIAMI, Okla. — Oklahoma is set to implement a series of new laws on January 1, 2025, addressing a variety of issues such as voting rights, healthcare transparency, and infrastructure improvements. These changes reflect efforts to enhance services and safeguard residents' rights across the state.

Voting Rights Expansion

One of the significant changes is House Bill 1629, which restores voting rights to individuals convicted of felonies once they have completed their sentences. Governor Kevin Stitt’s office has emphasized the importance of this measure, saying, "Restoring voting rights to individuals who have completed their sentences supports rehabilitation and encourages full civic participation."

Healthcare and Transparency

House Bill 3190 introduces the Ensuring Transparency in Prior Authorization Act, requiring insurance companies to post online the criteria for prior authorization and ensure decisions are made by licensed medical professionals. The Office of the Insurance Commissioner has stated, "This law is designed to provide patients with more access to transparent and timely healthcare decisions."

Toll Increases on Turnpikes

Starting January 1, 2025, tolls on all Oklahoma turnpikes will rise by 15%. The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority has acknowledged the necessity of these increases, stating that the revenue will be used for critical infrastructure improvements.

Emergency Protective Orders

House Bill 3363 introduces Emergency Protective Orders, allowing law enforcement officers to petition for immediate protective measures for victims of domestic violence. The Attorney General’s office has highlighted the urgency of this law, saying, "This legislation will provide swift protection for those at immediate risk."

Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors

The minimum wage for federal contractors will increase from $17.20 per hour to $17.75 per hour. The Oklahoma Department of Labor has stated that this adjustment reflects an annual inflation increase required by federal guidelines.

Corinne’s Law

Senate Bill 1334, also known as Corinne’s Law, ensures coverage for fertility preservation services, such as cryopreservation of ovarian tissue and sperm, for individuals undergoing medically necessary treatments. The legislature has emphasized the importance of supporting reproductive health in these circumstances.

Out-of-Network Ambulance Services

House Bill 2872 establishes a framework for paying out-of-network ambulance service providers. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority has indicated that this law is crucial for preventing excessive charges and ensuring patients are protected from surprise medical bills.

These legislative changes aim to create a more accessible and fair system across various aspects of Oklahoma’s social and economic landscape.

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Comments

  1. AnonymousDecember 28, 2024 at 9:09 AM

    Why the hell isn't regular minimum wage going up from 7.25

    ReplyDelete

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