The bill amends the Oklahoma Discovery Code, specifically 12 O.S. 2021, Section 3226.1, to introduce new provisions regarding protective orders in the context of depositions of high-ranking officers from government entities or other organizations. It establishes that a protective order can be issued to prevent such depositions if the party seeking the order demonstrates that the officer has extensive scheduling demands, lacks unique personal knowledge of the issues being litigated, and is a current or former high-ranking officer of a large and complex organization. The party must file a motion accompanied by an affidavit or declaration from the officer to establish these requirements.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which a court may issue or deny a protective order, including the need for the party seeking the deposition to demonstrate that they have exhausted other reasonable means of discovery and that the officer possesses unique personal knowledge of discoverable information. The court is also granted the authority to limit the scope of the deposition if the officer lacks unique knowledge of some matters. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for awarding expenses related to the motion for protective orders, depending on the outcome of the motion. The act is set to become effective on November 1, 2026.