By Journalist Olivia Kopang (OSU)
Rep. Hansen (OBU) answers questions about OBU-501
A controversial bill introduced in the House of Representatives led to an outbreak of vigorous debate on Thursday morning. Representative Hansen (OBU) introduced a bill titled “Peace and Quiet” Act of 2023. The bill proposed that any good samaritan may trip a child they deem a nuisance, making them stumble and fall. In accordance with this bill, the semertian may also avoid legal charges as well as a parent that retaliates against the samaritan who trips a child. To not much surprise, a fire was lit in the minds of representatives to voice their opinion on the bill.
Representatives had varying viewpoints on the bill, some even going so far as to say that it causes legitimate problems because of verbiage and subject. Representative Christopher Wier (NSU) was passionate about this bill, arguing that it perpetuates domestic violence. Wier explained that “Oklahoma right now is in a really dangerous situation. 50% of our citizens will face domestic violence at some point in their lives.” Wier elaborated further that “it hit a little too close to home for me and my community and that’s where I have to keep my focus on.”
Despite the fact that much contention was present, fresh faced representatives used the debate as preparation for presenting their own bills. Wier, a freshman OIL representative, expressed his enthusiasm for the coming days. “I am looking forward to presenting both of my bills. I am a zero star so presenting some bills will be a ton of fun.”
Not only was there a focus on the bill, there was also a focus on the amendments proposed after it was introduced in the House. Numerous representatives approached the body, eager to refine the contentious piece. After over an hour and a half of questions and hearing of amendments, this bill was passed, 17 in the negative and 34 in the affirmative. Although it wasn’t a unanimous vote, it was a zealous debate.