The bill amends the Employment Security Act of 1980 to modernize definitions and procedures related to unemployment claims in Oklahoma. It introduces new terms such as "claimant," referring to individuals filing for unemployment benefits, and "digital portal filing," which involves electronic communication with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC). The bill also revises filing requirements, allowing the OESC to modify appeal processes during significant economic events or potential fraud cases, and establishes electronic filing as the preferred method for document submission. Additionally, it clarifies the judicial review process by requiring the Board of Review to file a certified case record with the court within sixty days of receiving a petition, prioritizing these proceedings over other civil cases.
Moreover, the bill enhances confidentiality provisions regarding information obtained from employers and individuals, allowing for the release of specific information to state agencies under strict conditions while protecting identities. It notably removes the requirement for disclosure to law enforcement agencies but still permits information release for criminal investigations. These amendments aim to streamline the unemployment claims process and improve the operational efficiency of the OESC, with the act set to take effect on November 1, 2025.