By Journalist Lexi Sapien (RSC)
Senator Vidal (ORU) proposed an act called the “Happy and Healthy” act of 2023. This bill would place public showers and bathrooms in low-income communities.
Senator Vidal inspiration behind this act relates to the fact Ms. Vidal works closely aiding the homeless community and she had come to realize the privilege it is to be able to bathe and clean herself in the comfort of her own home. Many in Oklahoma did not obtain that privilege.
These cleaning units would be solar-powered, self cleaning operated by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. The self cleaning would be applied as a high pressure jet supplying one-hundred twenty Fahrenheit degree water and sanitization solvent from the ceiling to sanitize and decontaminate for a period of five minutes.
Only one person would be allowed to enter this facility at a time. Penalties for more than one person entering this establishment would include a fine of up to 1,000 dollars per offense. In the case of damage to the facility would result in a 500-5,000 dollar fine.
When asked where the funding for this would allocate from. It was said there would be a slight increase tax change to those who make over 200,000 a year.
I personally enjoy this bill. Currently some of my family members reside in both low-income areas and some who are homeless. I believe this bill takes action in addressing the homeless community as many times this community gets overlooked in Oklahoma. Providing public showers in these areas could be a great initiative to not only promote hygiene but also boost self-esteem and motivation. By addressing their basic needs, like access to public showers, we can provide them with a sense of dignity and hope. It’s crucial to break the cycle of homelessness and empower individuals to regain stability in their lives. Initiatives like these not only provide immediate support but also encourage individuals to work towards a brighter future.
Sadly the senate body did not see it as that and voted against bill ORU-529.