Bill > SB158

This bill creates the Oklahoma Emergency Weather Response and Tracking Regulatory Act of 2025, which establishes a formal framework for professional severe weather trackers working with qualified media outlets or higher education institutions. The legislation defines a professional severe weather tracker as an individual hired by or affiliated with a media outlet or research program, and sets specific requirements for these professionals, including completing an emergency driving course, maintaining $1 million in liability insurance, and obtaining official credentials. During significant weather events (such as tornado watches, severe thunderstorms, blizzards, or flood warnings), these trackers will be granted special vehicle privileges, including being classified as an authorized emergency vehicle, allowed to use green and white flashing lights, and permitted to proceed through traffic signals and closed roads after slowing down and ensuring safety. The bill limits each qualified media outlet or institution to hiring no more than five professional trackers and requires public documentation of these individuals. Trackers found in violation of the act's provisions may be subject to fines up to $500, and the legislation explicitly does not prohibit recreational or commercial storm tracking. The bill also amends existing Oklahoma statutes to recognize professional severe weather trackers as a new category of authorized emergency vehicle, effective July 1, 2025.