Bill No. 1827 amends the Governmental Tort Claims Act by updating definitions within Section 152 of Title 51 of the Oklahoma Statutes. Key modifications include the clarification of terms such as "claimant," "employee," and "political subdivision." Notably, the definition of "political subdivision" is expanded to include additional entities, specifically a public trust created under Section 3224 of Title 63, along with its associated not-for-profit corporations and subsidiaries. The bill also specifies that the term "employee" encompasses independent contractors and their employees when engaged in certain activities related to emergency services.

The bill aims to enhance the clarity and applicability of the Governmental Tort Claims Act, ensuring that various health care providers and emergency service personnel are adequately defined and included under the law. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 51-152
Committee Substitute: 51-152
Floor (Senate): 51-152
Engrossed: 51-152