OK SB1961

Amends Oklahoma's discrimination laws (25 O.S. 2001) to replace "handicap" terminology with "disability" throughout and to expand protections to include genetic information discrimination in employment.

Creates a cause of action for employment-based discrimination, abolishing common law remedies and establishing exclusive statutory remedies aligned with federal discrimination laws (Title VII, ADEA, ADA, Pregnancy Discrimination Act, GINA).

Requires individuals to file discrimination charges with the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission (OHRC) within 300 days of alleged discrimination and obtain a Notice of Right to Sue before filing civil action in district court; civil actions must be filed within 90 days of receiving the notice.

Establishes procedures for OHRC to issue Notice of Right to Sue upon request after 180 days if charge is unresolved; allows prevailing parties to recover attorney fees and damages available under applicable federal laws.

Effective November 1, 2010; repeals section 1901 relating to handicap discrimination and updates housing and public accommodations discrimination provisions to reference disability instead of handicap.