Courts; adding two special judges to be appointed in certain district. Effective date. Emergency.

This Oklahoma bill amends state law to increase the number of special judges in several specific judicial districts, including Tulsa, Rogers, and Washington counties. The legislation directs district judges to appoint these additional judges to help manage court caseloads and allows special judges to step in when regular associate district judges are unable to serve. While the bill updates existing population-based formulas for appointing judges, it specifically adds new positions in targeted areas to ensure proper administration of justice. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2024, and include an emergency declaration to allow immediate implementation.