26-02-2025
Bill could prohibit state employees from protesting during work hours
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – A proposed bill that would keep state employees from protesting during work hours passed through a Senate committee on Tuesday.
Senate Bill 481 was authored by Senator Dusty Deevers (R-Elgin). It would prohibit public employees from school districts, state agencies, and political subdivisions whose 'salary or wages are paid with taxpayer dollars' to protest while on the clock.
'It maintains employees free speech rights, but they may still express political views on their own time, but not on the taxpayer's time and the taxpayer's dime,' said Deevers.
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The bill would also prevent state workers from using taxpayer-funded computers, equipment, or vehicles during a protest.'It's important to know that the First Amendment guarantees the right of citizens to speak freely, but not the right of government employees to engage in political activism while on the clock,' said Deevers.
In recent weeks, protests against immigration and school board decisions have happened in Oklahoma.
Many also remember the Oklahoma Teacher Walkout in 2018, where teachers and staff demanded higher wages. A decision was made nine days later.
Lawmakers against the bill question its broad scope.'This is intended to limit public employees from associating with each other, from conducting community outreach,' said Sen. Julia Kirt (D-Oklahoma City). 'The definitions are so broad as to distinguish protests from advocacy and community outreach. I think it would create problems at the local level. I cannot support this roadway.'
The bill, which passed 6-2, will now head to the Senate floor.
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