Bill > HB3585

This bill updates various provisions related to court operations, primarily focusing on court reporters and secretary-bailiffs. It expands the methods by which court reporters can record proceedings to include any method authorized by the Supreme Court, removing a previous restriction on those who exclusively use a steno-mask, a device worn over the mouth to capture sound. The bill also clarifies that if no court reporter is available, proceedings can be electronically recorded, and allows parties to stipulate to the use of freelance reporters. For court reporters, their base salaries are significantly increased, and additional compensation is now tied to specific professional certifications like Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) and Registered Merit Reporter (RMR), with provisions for suspending this extra pay if a certification lapses. The requirements for obtaining these certifications are also updated, and the continuing education requirement is now directed by the Supreme Court. Furthermore, the bill increases the salaries for secretary-bailiffs, who provide administrative and support services to judges, and updates the examination methods for becoming a certified shorthand reporter, now explicitly including steno-mask shorthand as an authorized method. Finally, the bill sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3585&Session=2600