Rep. Scott Fetgatter (R-Okmulgee) has announced that he will be conducting more research into storm chasing in Oklahoma before moving forward with House Bill 2426. The bill aims to create an optional severe weather tracker license for professional storm chasers. Sen. Mark Mann (D-Oklahoma City), the principal Senate author of the bill, will be leading an interim study on the legislation.
The decision to conduct further research comes after concerns were raised by law enforcement and first responder agencies about the bill. The study is intended to clarify misunderstandings and determine the path of the legislation. If passed, licensed storm trackers would be allowed to display green and yellow flashing lights on their vehicles during severe weather events, enabling them to navigate through red lights and closed roads.
The purpose of the bill is to provide media outlets and first responders with the tools necessary to act quickly during severe weather events in Oklahoma. Chief meteorologists Travis Meyer and David Payne have expressed support for the legislation, emphasizing that it will not restrict anyone from storm chasing but will allow a small number of professionals to warn the public of dangerous weather conditions.
Fetgatter and Mann will be working with Meyer and Payne over the summer to gain a better understanding of severe weather and ensure the bill’s success. The joint effort aims to enhance the safety and effectiveness of storm chasers in Oklahoma.
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