State Lawmakers Expected To Vote On Health Emergency Declaration

State lawmakers will meet Monday to vote on Governor Kevin Stitt's health emergency order for all 77 counties in Oklahoma. The goal of this order is to better coordinate efforts across the state. The declaration designates the Oklahoma State Commissioner

Friday, April 3rd 2020, 4:58 am

By: Ashley Holden

State Lawmakers Expected To Vote On Health Emergency Declaration

State lawmakers will meet Monday to vote on Governor Kevin Stitt's health emergency order for all 77 counties in Oklahoma.

The goal of this order is to better coordinate efforts across the state.

The declaration designates the Oklahoma State Commissioner of Health, Gary Cox, as the primary public health authority responding to the emergency. It also allows health care professionals who have left the workforce to quickly rejoin.

He's also loosening restrictions and letting first responders know if the home they are dispatched to has a positive COVID-19 case.

The emergency declaration triggered a special session of the state legislature, which is planned for Monday, April 6. They will have to decide whether that health emergency is warranted.

Senate leader Republican Greg Treat said he supports the Governor's decision.

"This hasn't been triggered before, so this is the first time we are all dealing with it and I don't see anything in the reading that causes me concern," said Senator Treat. I think its well in line with the statewide response."

They'll also be looking for a way to fill the roughly $220 million hole in the 2020 budget.

Senator Treat said they will be live streaming the special session, but they are also taking precautions.

"Were working on a floor management plan to minimize contact between senators and try to keep up with the spirit and the procedures recommended by the CDC," said Senator Treat.

The session is scheduled to start 8 a.m.

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