This bill amends existing laws regarding the salaries and benefits of court reporters and secretary-bailiffs in Oklahoma. For court reporters, the annual salary is increased from $53,000 to $75,000 starting in fiscal year 2027, with additional longevity payments structured to reward service beyond the first fifteen years. Specifically, court reporters will receive $400 for each of the first fifteen years and $750 for each subsequent year, with a maximum longevity payment of $9,750 per year. Additionally, the equipment allowance for court reporters is raised from $3,000 to $4,000.

For secretary-bailiffs, the bill establishes a new salary schedule based on years of experience, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $75,000 depending on experience. Longevity payments are also introduced, providing $500 for the first four years of service, increasing to $1,100 for the twentieth year and beyond. The bill includes provisions for the appointment of additional court personnel and outlines the responsibilities and compensation for part-time bailiffs. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency for its immediate implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20-106.9, 20-125