HB 1099 Summary

• Creates a Rural Oklahoma Healthcare Task Force that expires December 31, 2013, to study healthcare issues in rural Oklahoma and recommend ways to improve accessibility and utilization in those areas.

• Task Force consists of 9 members representing allopathic physicians, osteopathic physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, rural hospitals, dentists, optometrists, and wellness/social services organizations, appointed by legislative leadership.

• Members must be appointed by August 1, 2013, with organizational meeting by August 31, 2013; members select their own chair and vice-chair.

• Task Force must submit final report with recommendations to the Governor, Speaker of House, and Senate President Pro Tempore no later than December 31, 2013.

• Task Force is exempt from the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Oklahoma Open Records Act; travel reimbursement provided by appointing authorities; emergency clause makes bill effective upon passage and approval.