Oklahoma's strategy for handling dilapidated buildings and ensuring public safety has received a legislative boost with the enactment of House Bill 2147. According to an article from the Oklahoma House of Representatives, the bill, championed by Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks, grants municipal authorities enhanced powers to enforce building and safety codes, which could have a profound impact on the state's cities and towns. Lay hailed this move, stating in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, "House Bill 2147 equips our cities with the authority they need to tackle problem properties head-on."
The problems associated with neglected properties—fire hazards, unsafe structures, and health risks—are long-standing issues that can blight neighborhoods and depress investment. Lay's approach with HB2147 is to create a "clear, consistent system for placing and enforcing liens, giving municipalities real power to uphold building and safety standards," according to the Oklahoma House of Representatives news release. This bill is tailored to ensure that even repeat offenders can no longer ignore the mandates of code enforcement officers, without consequences.
HB2147 is also committed to fairness and legal clarity. It establishes a transparent legal procedure which mandates notice, hearings, and adherence to strict timelines before any enforcement action can be taken. Lay believes this will aid in protecting property values and catalyze community revival. "This legislation helps cities clear out long-standing eyesores so communities can move forward and attract new growth," he explained, as per the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
In addition to streamlining enforcement procedures, HB2147 includes measures to protect due process for property owners. This ensures that any enforcement is both fair and measured. Lay said in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, "With HB2147 now law, our cities have the structure they need to take responsible action while respecting property rights." The anticipated activation date for the bill is Nov. 1, and it is set to apply across all municipalities, with the notable exception for owner-occupied properties.
