House Bill No. 2771 amends Section 122 of Title 20 of the Oklahoma Statutes regarding the appointment of special judges in various judicial administrative districts. The bill increases the number of special judges in specific counties, notably changing the appointment in the Oklahoma-Canadian Counties Judicial Administrative District from one special judge to three, effective July 1, 2025. Additionally, it establishes the appointment of five special judges in the Tulsa-Pawnee Counties Judicial Administrative District starting July 1, 2024. The bill also maintains provisions for the appointment of special judges based on population criteria and allows for the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court to authorize additional special judges as needed.

The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause, indicating its immediate necessity for the preservation of public peace, health, or safety. This legislative change aims to enhance the judicial system's capacity to manage cases effectively in response to population demands and judicial needs across the state.

Statutes affected:
House Committee Substitute: 20-122
Floor (House): 20-122
Engrossed: 20-122
Enrolled (final version): 20-122