Senate Bill No. 544 amends existing laws related to identification documents in Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the establishment of an Identity Verification Unit (IVU) within the Department of Public Safety. The bill replaces the previous Fraudulent Documents Identification Unit with the IVU, which will investigate and apprehend individuals involved in the sale or distribution of fraudulent identification documents. Additionally, the Commissioner of Public Safety is required to promulgate rules to administer the provisions of this section. The bill also updates statutory language and references to ensure clarity and accuracy.
Furthermore, the bill modifies sections related to driver licenses and identification cards, including the authority of Service Oklahoma and the Department of Public Safety. It clarifies the responsibilities and immunities of these agencies, particularly regarding the use of computerized finger imaging for identity verification. The bill establishes stricter regulations on the issuance and possession of identification documents, outlining penalties for violations, which can range from misdemeanors to felonies. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.