The bill amends Oklahoma law to enhance the roles, certification, and compensation of court reporters and related court personnel. It allows court reporters to use steno-masks and other authorized methods for recording proceedings, while removing the previous prohibition on certifying those who use steno-masks. The bill clarifies that electronic recordings can be used when a court reporter is unavailable and establishes that only transcripts from certified court reporters will be legally recognized. Additionally, it raises the base salary for court reporters to $70,000, introduces extra compensation for certifications, and removes certain continuing education requirements, granting the Supreme Court authority to set future requirements.

Moreover, the bill increases the annual salary for secretary-bailiffs from $42,000 to $60,000 starting in fiscal year 2027 and allows district judges to appoint additional court personnel with the Chief Justice's approval. It also outlines compensation for part-time bailiffs based on hours worked and specifies conditions for judges to engage bailiffs, including contracting with county sheriffs. Full-time secretary-bailiffs and bailiffs will have access to state retirement systems and insurance programs, while certified secretary-bailiffs will have peace officer powers but will not qualify for the Oklahoma Police Pension and Retirement System. The bill is scheduled to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 20-106.4, 20-106.9, 20-125