SB1368: OK Historical Society’s Vehicle Upgrade

Failed bill means no new truck purchases for Historical Society

This article was written with the assistance of ai software*

Photo byMichelle_Raponi

What did SB1368 want to accomplish?

SB1368 wanted to change the rules about how the state can buy cars and buses with public money.

It wanted to add two new groups, the Oklahoma Historical Society and Service Oklahoma, to the list of groups that don’t have to follow the usual buying rules.

The bill would let the Oklahoma Historical Society buy small trucks (those that weigh 8,500 pounds or less) to help with taking care of historic places, like moving heavy stuff and animals.

Who would have benefited from this law?

✔️Oklahoma Historical Society: They will be able to buy small trucks to help maintain and manage historic properties, which will make it easier for them to transport equipment and livestock.

✔️Service Oklahoma: This agency will also be exempt from certain purchasing restrictions, which can help streamline their operations and purchasing processes.

✔️Historic Sites and Properties: These sites will benefit indirectly as the Oklahoma Historical Society will have better equipment to care for and preserve them.

Overall, the changes will help these organizations manage their resources more effectively.

What are some concerns people might have about this law?

Some of these may be the reason the bill failed to pass:

⚠️Increased Costs: Allowing exemptions and additional truck purchases could lead to higher costs for the state, as more funds may be spent on vehicles and maintenance.

⚠️Less Oversight: Exempting certain entities from purchasing restrictions might reduce oversight and standardization, potentially leading to inconsistent purchasing practices.

⚠️Potential for Misuse: The broader exemptions might lead to unintended uses of public funds, where entities could purchase vehicles not directly related to their primary functions.

⚠️Budget Impact: Adding exemptions and new vehicle allowances could impact the state’s budget if not carefully managed or if additional funding is needed.

This bill was introduced on 2/29/24 by Senator Chuck Hall [R] and Senator George Burns [R]. Due to a lack of support, missed deadlines, committee action, leadership decisions or veto, this bill failed to pass and will not be signed into law.

➡️Is this something that you think Oklahomans need? How would it have benefited the county you live in?

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Hi, I'm Judy! I love talking about the area I live in and what affects us. Follow me if you'd like more stories like this.