Bill No. 171, introduced by Senators Kirt and Stanley and Representative Hilbert, aims to enhance the security and preservation of the State Capitol Building in Oklahoma. The bill mandates the Department of Public Safety to develop and maintain a security plan for the Capitol and its grounds, requiring updates every three years. It also amends existing laws related to the State Capitol Preservation Commission by creating a Capitol Liaison position to replace the previous legislative liaison committee. This new liaison will oversee proposals for enhancements, modifications, and restorations of the Capitol and serve as the primary contact for tenants within the building. The bill modifies the responsibilities and membership of the Preservation Commission, establishes new definitions and duties, and repeals outdated sections related to the State Capitol Repair Expenditure Oversight Committee.

Furthermore, the bill proposes to exempt certain maintenance, restoration, preservation, enhancement, and modification projects of the State Capitol Building and its grounds from the Public Competitive Bidding Act of 1974. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) will be responsible for selecting contractors based on their experience in historical preservation for any exempted construction work related to the Capitol or the Governor's Mansion. The bill also includes provisions for the maintenance and curation of the State and Capitol Art Collection, ensuring the Capitol's historical integrity is preserved while facilitating necessary renovations. An emergency clause is included to expedite the implementation of these changes, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 74-4102, 74-4106, 74-4107
Floor (Senate): 74-4102, 74-4106, 74-4107
Engrossed: 74-4102, 74-4106, 74-4107