HB 3156 Summary

• Creates the "Oklahoma First Informer Broadcasters Act" to be codified in Oklahoma Statutes Title 63, Section 6833.5-6833.6.

• Defines "broadcaster" as radio or television stations engaged in over-the-air communications and "first informer broadcaster" as a person certified through a training program.

• Permits broadcasters to develop comprehensive emergency response plans in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and statewide broadcaster organizations.

• Authorizes statewide broadcaster organizations to establish training and certification programs for broadcast engineers and technical personnel covering facility restoration, equipment repair, and personal safety during emergencies.

• Requires state and local government agencies to allow certified first informer broadcasters access to emergency or disaster areas to restore, repair, or resupply critical broadcasting equipment and facilities.

• Declares an emergency to make the act effective immediately upon passage and approval.