By Journalist Josiah Belie (ORU)
The first general session of the 55th legislature of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature kicked off today, setting the tone for a promising next few days with affirmations of many different special committee nominations and confirmations. This included the Judiciary, Appropriations, Rules, Sunshine, Standard & Ethics, and Fashion committees.
The Senate spent most of its morning passing internal legislation, but come afternoon, the agenda was completely focused on issues regards to voting security, reproduction rights, and artificial intelligence.
The P.A.V.E. Act (OSU-008), authored by Senator Milton, aims to enhance absentee voting procedures. It allows registered voters to apply for absentee ballots through various means, including electronic communication. The bill emphasizes the verification of voter information, requiring details like name, birth date, and identification number. Notably, it incorporates Social Security requirements for increased efficiency and security. The Act addresses challenges such as lost or rejected ballots and introduces measures to maintain the integrity of the voting process. Amendments include gender-neutral language and definitions related to households. The Act is set to take effect on July 1st, 2024.
The “Donor-Conceived Children and Reproductive Clarity” Act by Senator Brooks addresses reproductive technology, introducing definitions and codifications. It amends existing sections (10 O.S. §§551, 552, 553, and 556) while repealing sections 554 and 555. The bill aims to bring clarity and regulation to issues surrounding donor-conceived children. The effective date for this legislation is provided.
Senate Simple Resolution No. OU-301, introduced by Senator Marron, calls for a resolution declaring that the United States Congress must thoroughly examine information and formulate legislation concerning the regulation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology. The resolution emphasizes potential risks, such as cybersecurity threats, job security implications, challenges in liability and intellectual property law, the spread of misinformation, and the existential threat if AI systems surpass human intelligence. The resolution urges Congress to address these concerns through comprehensive and sensible legislation. An accepted amendment specifies “Congress” after the United States in the resolution.
The inaugural session of the 55th Legislature of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature set an optimistic tone with affirmations of committee nominations and confirmations. The Senate honed in on its agenda to crucial topics such as voting security, reproductive rights, and artificial intelligence. Highlighted bills include the P.A.V.E. Act, enhancing absentee voting with Social Security requirements, the “Donor-Conceived Children and Reproductive Clarity” Act addressing reproductive technology, and Senate Resolution No. OU-301 urging comprehensive AI regulation. These initiatives reflect a commitment by this new body to legislative efficacy, security, and ethical considerations.