OK HB3970

Expands allowable court reporting methods beyond stenographic hand and machine to include steno-mask, any method authorized by the Oklahoma Supreme Court, or combinations thereof

Authorizes court reporters to be available remotely or in person; when no reporter is available, judges may order electronic recording of proceedings, with any party able to order a transcript

Increases certification-based salary supplements from a single $2,000 payment to $2,000 per certification held (RPR, RMR, RDR, CRR, and equivalent NVRA certifications), up to a maximum of $8,000 annually above base salary

Suspends certification compensation payments if a court reporter's certification lapses, with no payment due during any period when certification is not in good standing

Adds steno-mask shorthand as an authorized certification method and permits the Supreme Court to authorize additional shorthand reporting methods; effective date November 1, 2026