Senate Advances Bill to Strengthen Law Enforcement Presence for Major Events

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Darrell Weaver, R-Moore, received the Senate’s approval for Senate Bill 523 Monday. The measure provides that any Oklahoma sheriff, deputy sheriff, or reserve deputy sheriff shall have the same powers and duties as though employed by the sheriff’s office for which he or she is performing duties outside of his or her county of employment.

“This measure will ensure our law enforcement agencies can work together to provide additional coverage and support for special events or in times where additional police presence is necessary,” Weaver said. “SB 523 clarifies language within our state laws related to liability, ensuring that Oklahoma law enforcement agencies can effectively operate across county lines while maintaining the authority and protection they need to keep our communities safe.”

Senate Bill 523 provides that liability shall remain with the county of employment while performing duties in another county.

Weaver added that the language of the bill was written following discussions with Sheriff Tommie Johnson and the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, who are currently planning to provide coverage for the 2028 Olympic events set to be held in Oklahoma City.

“The Olympic events coming to Oklahoma City will require additional law enforcement presence due to the size of the event and number of expected visitors,” Weaver said. “With this legislation in place, our county agencies will be able to utilize neighboring forces to ensure adequate coverage for the Olympics and other large-scale events set to come to our state.”

The measure now advances to the House of Representatives, where Rep. Robert Manger, R-Oklahoma City, is the author.

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For more information, contact:

Sen. Darrell Weaver at 405-521-5569 or email Darrell.Weaver@oksenate.gov.