This bill amends Section 106.9 of Title 20 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to the salaries and compensation of court reporters. The legislation increases the annual salary for court reporters from $53,000 to $55,000 starting in fiscal year 2027. Additionally, it raises the annual longevity payment from $400 to $500 for each year of service, with a new maximum cap on longevity payments increased from $8,000 to $10,000 per year. The bill also maintains the provision for an annual equipment allowance of $3,000 and outlines additional compensation for court reporters who hold various certifications, each receiving an extra $2,000 per year for their qualifications.

The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026, and the bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval. This legislative action aims to enhance the compensation structure for court reporters, recognizing their service and qualifications while ensuring that the judiciary can attract and retain qualified professionals in these critical roles.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20-106.9