Labor; public employees; collective bargaining; effective date.

HB 4481 establishes a statutory right for all Oklahoma public employees (including state, county, and municipal workers) to form unions, negotiate collectively over wages and working conditions, and engage in protected concerted activities. The bill explicitly guarantees employees the right to join or assist labor organizations without employer interference, while also affirming their right to decline participation in such activities. Key provisions require employers to recognize and bargain with elected employee representatives on terms of employment, mirroring federal labor protections. The law takes effect on November 1, 2026.