Bill No. 1547, introduced by Representatives Patzkowsky and Pederson, amends several sections of the Oklahoma Statutes related to agricultural fairs and expositions. Key modifications include the allowance for the consideration of digital and electronic communication, Internet, and supporting equipment in the expenditure of funds for managing fairs, replacing the previous mention of telegraph and telephone. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for a twelve-hour voting window for the election of officers and directors of the county fair association, along with procedures for the removal of these officials based on attendance and unanimous votes from other members.
The bill also outlines the annual levy that county commissioners and excise boards can impose to support fair activities, maintaining the existing limits on millage rates based on county population. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the management and operational aspects of county fairs, ensuring they can utilize contemporary communication methods and establish clearer governance structures.