House Bill No. 2118 proposes significant amendments to the structure and operations of the Oklahoma Military Department, particularly focusing on the role and responsibilities of the Adjutant General. The bill stipulates that the Adjutant General must be a federally recognized colonel or higher in the Oklahoma National Guard and establishes a compensation guideline that aligns their pay with that of a Major General on federal active duty. Additionally, the Adjutant General will receive new authorities, including the ability to arm state military members, accept donations for National Guard programs, and oversee fire protection and police units. The bill also addresses operational aspects, such as exempting federal programs from certain requirements and establishing penalties for domestic violence among militia members.

Further amendments to the Oklahoma Uniform Code of Military Justice clarify procedures surrounding nonjudicial punishment and court-martial proceedings. The bill replaces the term "commander" with "commanding officer" for clarity and sets specific conditions under which enlisted members can be reduced in rank. It introduces new articles regarding court-martial convening by federal officials and outlines offenses related to drug use and domestic violence, ensuring that military personnel found in violation face appropriate consequences. The legislation aims to enhance military justice procedures while upholding the rights of service members, and it mandates the adoption of the Manual for Courts-Martial as the Oklahoma State Manual, effective November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 44-940b
House Committee Substitute: 44-940b
Floor (House): 44-940b
Floor (Senate): 44-940b
Engrossed: 44-940b
Amended And Engrossed: 44-940b
Sub Committee OR Policy Committee Recommendations (House) Policy Committee Recommendation: 44-940b