Business and Insurance

SB 1948 removes seasonal restrictions on retail fireworks sales, allowing year-round sales from January 1 to December 31 for licensed retailers (previously limited to specific periods). It prohibits counties from banning private, noncommercial outdoor fireworks displays on private property when no burn ban is active. The bill maintains existing requirements for NFPA-compliant retail locations, 16+ age for license holders, and mail-order sales bans. It directly affects licensed fireworks retailers, consumers, and county governments regarding display regulations. The law takes effect November 1, 2026.

HB 1381 modifies Oklahoma's rules for issuing and renewing alcohol licenses by removing specific grounds for denial. It specifically allows beer distributors and wine/spirits wholesalers to hold both license types (e.g., a beer distributor can also hold a wine wholesaler license) if otherwise qualified, which was previously restricted. The bill also updates language regarding prior convictions related to alcohol violations and clarifies that license applicants must comply with state tax laws. These changes apply to all license types under the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, effective November 1, 2025.

SB 1061 modifies Oklahoma's mortgage licensing fees under the Oklahoma Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act. It establishes a $1,200 application fee for mortgage brokers and lenders, and sets a $1,000 annual renewal fee for brokers/lenders, with mortgage lender fees calculated as 0.008% of loan volume (originated/serviced in Oklahoma) capped at $40,000 annually for originations and $17,500-$27,500 for servicing. These fees affect mortgage brokers, lenders, and originators operating in Oklahoma, requiring them to pay based on business scale. The bill takes effect November 1, 2024, with revised caps for 2025 and 2026.

SB 1534 modifies Oklahoma's rules for charitable organizations and fundraising. It requires charitable nonprofits to submit specific information to the Secretary of State, updates definitions of terms like "charitable organization" and "contribution," and prohibits certain actions by these organizations. The bill directly affects charitable groups soliciting donations in Oklahoma, professional fundraisers, and their solicitors by clarifying requirements and adding new restrictions. Key provisions include updated board membership rules and clearer boundaries for professional fundraising activities. The bill aims to strengthen oversight of charitable solicitations while aligning state law with current federal tax return requirements.

HB 3521, the Oklahoma Money Transmission Modernization Act, replaces outdated state laws governing businesses that send or receive money transfers (like digital payment apps or money orders). It establishes new licensing requirements, including financial statements, surety bonds, and net worth standards, while defining key terms like "authorized delegate" for businesses operating under licensees. The bill creates penalties for violations, including a Class D1 felony charge for intentionally making false statements or operating without a license, and grants the Banking Commissioner expanded authority to enforce rules and conduct examinations. This directly affects money transmission companies, their delegates, and the Banking Commissioner’s oversight role in Oklahoma.