Emergency Weather Response Bill wins unanimous committee approval

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Mark Mann, D-Oklahoma City, won unanimous, bipartisan support from the Senate Retirement and Government Resources Committee for legislation to help storm trackers travel Oklahoma roads and highways more safely during severe weather. Senate Bill 158 would allow storm trackers employed by FCC licensed radio or TV stations or employees from universities with meteorology programs to be able to travel as first-responders.

“These individuals would be able to use green and white emergency lights on their vehicles, and could travel in excess of the speed limit and travel through red lights,” Mann said. “We know these teams are vital to informing the public, helping save lives in our state. SB 158 will enable them to do their jobs more quickly and safely so they can help keep Oklahomans informed about dangerous weather events.”

Under Mann’s legislation, up to five storm trackers from each qualified media outlet or higher education institution would be extended the ability to travel as a first responder. Those individuals would have to complete an emergency driving course and have ID issued by their employer. The vehicle would also have to display markings identifying its use for severe weather tracking as well as the employer, and utilize white and green emergency lights. The act would allow storm trackers to exceed speed limits as long as speeding does not endanger life or property, and proceed past a red light or stop sign after slowing down as necessary for safe operation. They would still be required to yield to emergency vehicles.

“We’ve continued to see increasing numbers of recreational storm chasers and storm tourism in our state. This bill in no way prohibits the right of a person to do that, but we do recognize that broadcast and university storm trackers play a vital role in keeping the public safe. SB 158 will help them do their job more safely and efficiently,” Mann said.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Mark Mann at 405-590-4471 or Mark.Mann@oksenate.gov