HB 2108 Summary

• Establishes the "Volunteer Firefighter Protection Act" in Oklahoma law, effective November 1, 2013

• Prohibits public and private employers from terminating employees who become volunteer firefighters or who respond to emergencies while employed

• Allows employers to reduce pay for time missed due to emergency response, but requires employees to provide reasonable notice and may request written verification from fire department supervisors

• Provides civil remedies for wrongful termination including reinstatement, back wages, benefits restoration, and seniority rights, with a one-year statute of limitations for filing claims

• Defines "volunteer firefighter" as anyone serving without monetary compensation in municipal, rural, subscription, or charitable fire departments or Rural Fire Protection Districts