State Legislative Update: SB 1675 heads to the governor

Posted on: 5/31/24

On Thursday afternoon, the Legislature adjourned sine die, bringing the Second Session of the 59th Oklahoma Legislature to a close. Due to the advocacy of the members of OHA, SB 1675 by Rep. Marcus McEntire and Sen. Greg McCortney passed off the House floor for the last time. The bill passed by a vote of 82-8. On Wednesday, the bill passed the Senate by a vote of 40-3. 

An OHA request bill, it extends the healthcare provider rate floor in the SoonerSelect program and ensures competition in the marketplace by requiring a provider-owned organization to be awarded a contract during the next procurement cycle for SoonerSelect if it demonstrates the ability to fulfill contractual requirements. The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature or veto. With the Legislature sine die, the governor has 15 days to take action on the bill. 

This is the final bill carried by Rep. McEntire on behalf of OHA as he is not seeking re-election to his House seat. His statesmanship will be missed in the Oklahoma Legislature. 

Looking forward to June, primary elections in the state are set for June 18, with runoff elections set for Aug. 2. OHA encourages its membership to sit down with candidates running for office and get to know them, sharing the impact your hospital has on your communities. (Scott Tohlen)