Labor & Employment

HB 1540 creates the Oklahoma Workforce Education Partnership Revolving Fund within the State Treasury to support career and technology education programs. The fund, managed by the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE), will use state appropriations, gifts, and donations to expand career tech education based on critical occupation data. It operates as a reusable fund (replenished by incoming revenue) until July 1, 2030, with expenditures requiring state treasurer warrants. The bill directly affects ODCTE's ability to fund workforce training programs, aiming to align education with local job market needs.

SB 254 requires Oklahoma's Department of Labor to hire an independent actuary by January 2027 to analyze the costs and structure of a potential paid family and medical leave program. The study will examine key factors like coverage for all workers (including self-employed), premium costs shared by workers and employers, wage replacement rates for low-income workers, and administrative expenses, using data from other states. It does not create the leave program itself but mandates a detailed cost analysis to inform future decisions. The actuary must model at least two program designs and report findings publicly within 30 days of completion. This study is a prerequisite step before any implementation of a state-run paid leave system.

SB 358 requires railroad operators on Oklahoma’s "main lines" (routes handling over 5 million tons of annual traffic) to install and maintain infrared hot bearings detectors every 10 miles along those tracks. These detectors identify overheating train components like bearings, axles, or wheels to prevent safety hazards. Violations carry fines of $1,000 to $5,000, enforceable by the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety. The law, effective November 1, 2025, applies specifically to commercial freight rail operations, excluding tourist or scenic lines.