House Bill No. 1138 amends Section 34.301 of the Civil Service and Human Capital Modernization Act, focusing on the responsibilities of the Human Capital Management Division and the Civil Service Division within the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. The bill mandates the establishment of a State Employee Dispute Resolution Program, which may include mediation, and requires the creation of rules to facilitate this program. It broadens the scope of complaints that can be received and acted upon, specifically including grievances from state employees performing duties related to certain outlined sections of the Oklahoma Statutes. Additionally, the bill introduces a confidential whistleblower program for reporting mismanagement or misuse of state resources.

The legislation also stipulates that complaints must be filed within ten business days of the disciplinary action and outlines the process for hearings, which should occur within thirty business days, with exceptions for specific cases. It allows for representation during the adverse action process and permits the presiding officer to award attorney fees to the prevailing party if the opposing party's position is deemed frivolous. The bill clarifies that certain employees, such as elected officials and temporary workers, are exempt from these provisions. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 62-34.301
Floor (House): 62-34.301
Floor (Senate): 62-34.301
Engrossed: 62-34.301
Amended And Engrossed: 62-34.301
Enrolled (final version): 62-34.301