This bill amends Section 11-1302 of Title 47 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to the management of flooded highways and construction zones. It grants the Department of Transportation, Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, and local jurisdictions the authority to close highways during flooding or maintenance and mandates the erection of traffic-control devices and barricades to inform the public. The bill also modifies the language to be gender-neutral by replacing "flagmen" with "flagpersons."
Additionally, the bill introduces stricter penalties for violations related to entering closed areas. It establishes that individuals who violate these provisions, particularly in cases resulting in death, may face severe charges, including manslaughter in the first or second degree, depending on the age of the victim. The penalties include fines ranging from $100 to $2,500 and potential imprisonment, along with restitution for emergency response costs and damages. The effective date for this legislation is set for November 1, 2026.