More Than 200 New Laws Take Effect in Oklahoma
KTUL-Tulsa - November 3, 2022 6:17 am
TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Over 200 new laws took effect Tuesday in Oklahoma ranging from catalytic converter thefts to cracking down on robocalls.
One new law gives renters more power by allowing them to make essential home repairs without having to foot the bill. House Bill 3409 modified the Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. It now states tenants can deduct the repair costs from their rent for up to one month’s total rent.
Previous laws said tenants could only deduct up to $100 for repair costs.
Senate Bill 1695 requires the governor to disclose investments and income when appointing a cabinet secretary or head of state agency. Gov. Kevin Stitt vetoed the bill initially saying he actually wanted it to go further, but lawmakers overturned his veto.
Also, stealing a catalytic converter, tires, or wheels from a vehicle is now punishable by a $5,000 fine or five years in prison. The Oklahoma House passed House Bill 3005 in March making it a felony to steal catalytic converters – a big problem across the state.
House Bill 3504 makes it more affordable for women to get mammograms. The diagnostic imaging legislation eliminates barriers so that people with state-regulated health plans can receive necessary screenings without paying any out-of-pocket expenses. The bill was authored by both Republicans and Democrats.
Robocalls are now prohibited before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m. as well as spam calls that block the caller’s number or alters their voice. The Telephone Solicitation Act of 2022 looks to give power back to those on the receiving end of these calls.
