reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-34. Interment or cremation assistance for indigent veterans.

A. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs shall establish a program to provide assistance for the proper interment or cremation of honorably discharged indigent veterans of the United States Armed Forces. The program shall aid in obtaining any available burial benefits from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or through private organizations. The program shall provide for a burial grant for any indigent veteran or any person who qualifies for reimbursement as determined by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, for unpaid expenses directly resulting from interment or cremation. Maximum reimbursement shall not exceed One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) per indigent veteran application.
B. Eligibility requirements for the program shall be as follows:
1. The deceased shall be a veteran as defined by Section 2 of this title;
2. No one shall have claimed the remains of the deceased Veteran;
3. The veteran shall have died in Oklahoma;
4. The veteran shall not have been in the custody of the Department of Corrections at the time of death;
5. The applicant shall provide documentation establishing the burial location of the deceased veteran's remains in a cemetery or the location where the deceased veteran's cremains have been permanently placed; and
6. The applicant shall provide documentation establishing that the deceased veteran received a proper memorial headstone or marker at the place of his or her interment as provided for in Section 2306 of Title 38 of the United States Code or that a memorial headstone or marker meeting the same physical standards for size, material, composition, placement and informational content was provided in the event the deceased veteran did not qualify under the provisions of Section 2306 of Title 38 of the United States Code.
C. The Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs or his or her designee shall make final approval of Indigent Veteran Burial Applications, shall determine whether the deceased meets eligibility criteria and may approve funds to reimburse the costs of interment or cremation.
D. Reimbursement shall be paid from the Indigent Veteran Burial Revolving Fund. If there are insufficient resources in the Indigent Veteran Burial Revolving Fund, payment shall be made from the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Revolving Fund.
Once funds are available in the Indigent Veteran Burial Revolving Fund, the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs may be reimbursed for payments made from the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Revolving Fund.
E. Application processes for the implementation of this program shall be developed by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs.
F. Rules for the implementation of this program shall be promulgated by the Oklahoma Veterans Commission.
Added by Laws 2016, c. 394, § 1, eff. Jan. 1, 2017. Amended by Laws 2019, c. 165, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2019.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-35. K-I-A Reinterment Fund.

A. There is hereby created in the State Treasury a fund for the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs to be designated the "K-I-A Reinterment Fund". The fund balance shall not exceed Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000.00) and shall consist of:
1. All monies apportioned or allocated to the fund pursuant to law;
2. Any amounts appropriated by the Legislature to the fund; and
3. Gifts, grants, and other donations received for the fund.
B. All monies accruing to the credit of the fund are hereby appropriated and may be budgeted and expended by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the purposes of disinterring those who were killed in action while in combat with a hostile force and reinterment in a State Veterans Cemetery. Expenditures from the fund shall be made upon warrants issued by the State Treasurer against claims filed as prescribed by law with the Director of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services for approval and payment.
C. The Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs shall establish the application procedure and the criteria for awarding financial assistance.
D. All applications for reinterment shall be approved by the Oklahoma Veterans Commission.
Added by Laws 2022, c. 79, § 1, eff. July 1, 2022.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-36. Short title - Dignity in Burial Act.

A. This act shall be known and may be cited as the "Dignity in Burial Act".
B. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs shall establish a program to ensure a dignified burial for honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces who, prior to death, lacked the financial capacity to prepare for or to provide for an interment or cremation befitting a veteran of the United States Armed Forces. The program shall aid in obtaining any available burial benefits from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or through private organizations. The program shall provide a burial grant for any veteran or any person who qualifies for reimbursement, as determined by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, for unpaid expenses directly resulting from interment or cremation. The maximum amount of reimbursement, not including private funds, shall not exceed One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) per application.
C. Eligibility requirements for the program shall be as follows:
1. The deceased shall be a veteran as defined in Section 2 of Title 72 of the Oklahoma Statutes;
2. The veteran shall have died in Oklahoma;
3. The veteran shall not have been in the custody of the Department of Corrections at the time of death;
4. The applicant shall provide documentation establishing the burial location of the deceased veteran's remains in a cemetery or the location where the deceased veteran's cremains have been permanently placed;
5. The applicant shall provide documentation establishing that the deceased veteran was provided an appropriate casket if the deceased veteran was interred; and
6. The applicant shall provide documentation establishing that the deceased veteran received a proper memorial headstone or marker at the place of his or her interment as provided in 38 U.S.C., Section 2306 or that a memorial headstone or marker meeting the same physical standards for size, material, composition, placement, and informational content was provided in the event the deceased veteran did not qualify under the provisions of 38 U.S.C., Section 2306.
D. The Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs or his or her designee shall make final approval of the Dignity in Burial Act applications, shall determine whether the deceased meets eligibility criteria, and may approve funds to reimburse the costs of interment or cremation.
E. Reimbursement shall be paid from the Indigent Veteran Burial Revolving Fund provided in Section 34 of Title 72 of the Oklahoma Statutes. If there are insufficient resources in the Indigent Veteran Burial Revolving Fund, payment shall be made from the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Revolving Fund.
F. An application process for the implementation of this program shall be developed by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs.
G. Rules for the implementation of this program shall be promulgated by the Oklahoma Veterans Commission.
Added by Laws 2022, c. 90, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2022.
NOTE: Editorially renumbered from § 72.35 of this title to avoid a duplication in numbering.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-47. Private employment - Restoration to position or employment at expiration of military service.

If a person was in the employment of any private employer, firm, company, partnership or corporation, it is hereby declared to be the sense of the Legislature that such person, upon the expiration of the person's period of active duty in the military service of the United States, be restored to the position or employment in which the person was engaged at the time of being ordered into the active military service of the United States pursuant to the provisions of the federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994, Title 38, Chapter 43 of the United States Code.
Added by Laws 1941, p. 438, § 2, emerg. eff. May 12, 1941. Amended by Laws 2002, c. 396, § 2, emerg. eff. June 5, 2002.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-48.1. Leave of absence during active service - Private sector employees.

A. All officers and employees of any employer in the private sector, who are members, either officers or enlisted, of the Reserve Components of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, or any other component of the Uniformed Services of the United States, shall, when ordered by the proper authority to active or inactive duty or service under Title 10 of the United States Code, be entitled to a leave of absence from such private civilian employment for the period of such service without loss of status or seniority. During such leave of absence in any federal fiscal year, the employer in the private sector may elect to pay the officer or employee an amount equal to the difference between his or her full regular pay from the employer in the private sector and his or her military base pay. The durational limit of protected military service as provided for in this section shall not be less than that provided by federal law.
If any employer in the private sector fails to comply with the provisions of this subsection, the officer or employee may bring an action in district court for the same remedies and damages provided for in Section 17 of this act, for such noncompliance and may be granted such relief as is just and proper under the circumstances.
B. All officers and employees of any employer in the private sector, who are members, either officers or enlisted, of the state military forces, shall, when ordered by the proper authority to state active duty or Title 32 active duty, be entitled to all the protections provided under the Oklahoma Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
C. "State active duty", "state military forces", and "Title 32 active duty", for the purposes of this section, shall be defined in accordance with Section 801 of Title 44 of the Oklahoma Statutes.
Added by Laws 1994, c. 94, § 4, eff. July 1, 1994. Amended by Laws 2021, c. 122, § 25, emerg. eff. April 21, 2021.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-48.2. Extension of professional license during active duty.

A. As used in this section, "license" means any license issued pursuant to:
1. Title 59, Professions and Occupations; and
2. Title 5, Attorneys and State Bar.
B. Any license held by a member of the National Guard or reserve component of the armed forces that expires while the member is on active duty shall be extended until one hundred twenty (120) days after the member is discharged from active duty status.
C. The licensing agency shall renew a license extended pursuant to subsection B until the next date that the license expires or for the period that the license is normally issued, at no cost to the member of the National Guard or reserve component of the armed forces if all of the following conditions are met:
1. The National Guard member or reservist requests renewal of the license within one hundred twenty (120) days after being discharged;
2. The National Guard member or reservist provides the licensing agency with a copy of the official orders of the member or reservist calling the member or reservist to active duty, and official orders discharging the member or reservist from active duty; and
3. The National Guard member or reservist meets all the requirements necessary for the renewal of the license, except the member or reservist need not meet the requirements, if any, that relate to continuing education or training.
D. The provisions of this section do not apply to regularly scheduled annual training.
Added by Laws 2005, c. 130, § 5, eff. Nov. 1, 2005. Amended by Laws 2016, c. 103, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2016.
NOTE: Laws 2016, c. 191, § 1 repealed by Laws 2017, c. 42, § 33.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-49.1. Removal of disability of minority.

The disability of minority of any person otherwise eligible for guaranty of a loan pursuant to the "Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944", 78th Congress, as amended, and of the spouse of such person, is hereby removed for the purposes of enabling such persons to enter into valid contracts for the acquiring or encumbering, or selling and conveying property and the incurring of indebtedness or obligations incident to either or both, or the refinancing thereof, and litigating or settling controversies arising therefrom, if all or part of the obligations or indebtedness incident to such transaction are or ultimately may be guaranteed by the administrator of veteran's affairs pursuant to such act and an application signed by such minor; and for the purpose of entering into any contract with the State of Oklahoma or any political subdivision thereof or municipal corporation therein, or the United States Government or any agency thereof; provided nevertheless, that this section shall not be construed to impose any other or greater rights or liabilities than would exist if such person and such spouse were each at least eighteen (18) years of age.
Laws 1947, p. 578, § 1, emerg. eff. May 16, 1947; Laws 1972, c. 221, § 8, eff. Aug. 1, 1972.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.1. Powers of military officers.

For the purposes as set forth in this act, military officers, as designated herein, shall have the same power and authority to administer oaths and affirmations, and take depositions, affidavits and acknowledgments of persons in the military, naval, or other armed services of the United States, as officers now authorized by the laws of this state for like purposes.
Laws 1944, Ex. Sess., p. 22, § 1, emerg. eff. April 24, 1944.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.2. Rank of officer - Spouse's acknowledgment - Authentication - Acknowledgment before notary.

The deed of any person, for the conveyance of real estate within this state, or for any other purpose, powers of attorneys, and other instruments requiring acknowledgments or the taking and subscribing of oaths, may, if such person is engaged in the military service of the United States, be acknowledged before any officer in said service of the rank of Sergeant or higher, and, if such person is engaged in the naval service of the United States, before any officer of the rank of Petty Officer or higher, and, if such person is engaged in any other armed service of the United States, before any officer of a rank corresponding to those mentioned above; and such deeds, powers of attorneys, and other instruments so acknowledged shall be accepted and recorded in this state in the same manner as if taken before any officer now authorized by the laws of this state to take such acknowledgments. Provided further, that if the acknowledgment of any person herein be of such a nature as to require a joint or separate acknowledgment of his or her spouse, the officers designated herein shall have power to take the acknowledgment of such spouse, and instruments upon which such acknowledgments appear shall be entitled to recording under the laws of this state. No authentication of an officer's certificate of acknowledgment shall be required, but the officer taking the acknowledgment or subscription shall sign his name and set forth his rank or title and branch of service, and such statement by said officer as to his rank, title and branch of service, and his home address, shall be prima facie evidence thereof. Nothing herein shall be construed as preventing any person named herein from acknowledging instruments before a notary public or other officer of this or any other state or foreign country whose acknowledgments are recognized for the purpose of recording under the laws of this state.
Laws 1944, Ex. Sess., p. 22, § 2, emerg. eff. April 24, 1944.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.21. Qualifications of recipients.

Any person having the following qualifications is hereby authorized to apply for, receive, and display a certain badge or medal, to be known as "The Oklahoma Cross of Valor":
(1) Was a resident of Oklahoma at the time of entering the military service of the United States;
(2) The military service referred to in (1) above, was performed during either World War II, the Korean Conflict or the Republic of Vietnam Conflict, or during any period of time in which the United States participated in a war, campaign or battle;
(3) Was made and officially listed as captive by the enemy during the service mentioned in (2) above; and
(4) Was honorably discharged from the military service.
Laws 1953, p. 401, § 1, emerg. eff. May 12, 1953; Laws 1973, c. 120, § 1, emerg. eff. May 4, 1973; Laws 1991, c. 205, § 1, emerg. eff. May 17, 1991.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.22. Procedure for applications and approval.

The Governor shall fix the procedure in applying for and issuing of the medal; the Governor shall fix the manner and method of approving applications or recommendations for the award.
Added by Laws 1953, p. 401, § 2, emerg. eff. May 12, 1953. Amended by Laws 2013, c. 233, § 3, eff. Nov. 1, 2013.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.23. Design - Payment of cost.

The Governor shall fix, or cause to be fixed, the character and design of the medal herein referred to; provided any such design shall include the words stamped or raised thereon, "Oklahoma Cross of Valor"; provided further, the Governor is hereby authorized to expend, from the Governor's contingency fund, any monies for the cost of said medals or badges.
Laws 1953, p. 401, § 3, emerg. eff. May 12, 1953.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.24. Korean Conflict Medallion Program.

A. There is hereby created the “Korean Conflict Medallion Program”.
B. The Oklahoma Korean Conflict Medallion award shall consist of a medallion, medal, and certificate of appreciation. A veteran shall be eligible for the award if the veteran:
1. Was a resident of Oklahoma at the time of entering the military service of the United States;
2. Served in active duty in the United States Military at any time beginning June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955; and
3. Was honorably separated or discharged from military service, still in active service in an honorable status, or was in active service at the time of his or her death.
C. The Oklahoma Korean Conflict Medallion award shall be awarded regardless of whether or not such veteran served within the United States or in a foreign country. The award shall be awarded regardless of whether or not such veteran was under eighteen (18) years of age at the time of enlistment. For purposes of this section, “veteran” means any person defined as a veteran by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its successor agency.
D. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs shall administer the Korean Conflict Medallion Program and set the procedures for awarding the medallion, medal and certificate.
E. In order to create statewide involvement in the design of the award in recognition of this historic endeavor, the Governor shall solicit potential designs from elementary and secondary schools, veterans’ groups, and any other interested parties, provided any such design shall include the words “Oklahoma Korean Conflict Medallion”. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs is authorized to expend any monies appropriated to the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs for the cost of such medals, medallions and certificates, subject to the availability of the funds.
Added by Laws 2004, c. 473, § 1, eff. July 1, 2004.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.25. Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor.

A. The Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor shall be awarded to a member of the state or federal military forces designated by concurrent resolution of the Legislature who voluntarily performs a deed of personal bravery or self-sacrifice involving risk of life that is so conspicuous as to clearly distinguish the person for gallantry and intrepidity above the person’s comrades. The medal shall be awarded based on the standard of extraordinary merit. The medal shall be awarded only on incontestable proof of performance of the deed. To be eligible for the Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor, a person shall:
1. Have been born in this state;
2. Reside in this state or have been a resident of this state on the person’s death; or
3. Have been a resident of this state when the person entered military service.
B. A person is not ineligible for the Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor because the person has received any other medal or award for military service, including a medal or award made by the United States.
C. To receive the Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor, a person shall be nominated during a regular session of the Legislature by majority vote of all the members of a nominating committee consisting of:
1. The Adjutant General or the Adjutant General’s designated representative;
2. The Lieutenant Governor or the Lieutenant Governor’s designated representative;
3. The Speaker of the House of Representatives or the Speaker’s designated representative;
4. The President Pro Tempore of the Senate or the President Pro Tempore’s designated representative;
5. The chair of the standing committee of each house of the Legislature with primary jurisdiction over military and veteran affairs; and
6. The Oklahoma Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
D. The Department of Veterans Affairs shall design the medallion and ribbon for the Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor.
E. The Legislature by concurrent resolution may direct the Governor to award the Oklahoma Legislative Medal of Honor to a person nominated by the nominating committee. The committee chairs serving on the nominating committee shall jointly prepare a concurrent resolution directing the Governor to award the medal to a person nominated. The Legislature shall direct the medal to be awarded only during a regular session and shall not direct the medal to be awarded to more than one person during a regular session.
Added by Laws 2008, c. 68, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2008.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-50.26. Oklahoma Gold Star Medal.

A. The Oklahoma Gold Star Medal shall be awarded to a member of the state or federal military forces who voluntarily performed a deed of personal bravery or self-sacrifice during combat after September 11, 2001, that resulted in his or her loss of life.
B. The Oklahoma Gold Star Medal shall be awarded based on the standard of extraordinary merit. The medal shall be awarded only on incontestable proof.
C. To be eligible for the Oklahoma Gold Star Medal, a person shall have been:
1. Born in this state, a resident of this state on the person's death, or a resident of this state when the person entered military service; and
2. Killed in the line of duty in a combat zone or died of wounds inflicted in a combat zone.
D. A person shall not be ineligible for the Oklahoma Gold Star Medal because the person received any other medal or award for military service, including a medal or award made by the United States.
E. To receive the Oklahoma Gold Star Medal, a person shall be nominated by a member of the Oklahoma Legislature and approved by the Adjutant General.
F. Pursuant to Section 192 of Title 44 of the Oklahoma Statutes, the Adjutant General shall design the medallion and ribbon for the Oklahoma Gold Star Medal and shall be responsible for awarding the medal to persons who have been approved by the Adjutant General pursuant to subsection E of this section.
Added by Laws 2012, c. 272, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2012.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.1. Commission and Department created - Cabinet-level status - Composition - Administration.

There is hereby created the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, and the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, which shall be a cabinet-level department pursuant to the provisions of Section 10.3 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes. The Department shall consist of a departmental headquarters and such Veterans Centers as are operated by the Department. The Department shall be administered under such rules, regulations and policies as may be prescribed by the Oklahoma Veterans Commission. Any reference in any law of this state referring to or naming the Soldiers Relief Commission shall be construed to refer to and name the Oklahoma Veterans Commission.
Added by Laws 1947, p. 578, § 1, emerg. eff. April 24, 1947. Amended by Laws 1969, c. 184, § 1; Laws 1981, c. 169, § 1, emerg. eff. May 13, 1981; Laws 1989, c. 27, § 1, operative July 1, 1989; Laws 2014, c. 212, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2014; Laws 2014, c. 262, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.3. Powers and duties of Commission - Travel expenses.

The Oklahoma Veterans Commission shall perform all acts necessary or proper to afford emergency, temporary and permanent relief and assistance to all honorably discharged ex-service persons of all wars of the United States of America and to their dependents, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by law. The Commission shall promulgate rules and regulations, in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act, for the operation and maintenance of the Department of Veterans Affairs; provided, however, in all cases priority and preference shall always be given to disabled or diseased ex-service persons. The members of the Commission shall be reimbursed for necessary travel as provided in the State Travel Reimbursement Act. In addition to its other powers and duties as herein provided, the Commission shall have the following specific powers and duties which shall, however, not be deemed to be exclusive:
1. To organize itself by the election of a Chairman, Vice Chairman and Secretary, who shall perform the duties required of them by the rules and regulations, but shall receive no extra compensation therefor, and to provide for the time and place of meetings of the Commission;
2. To appoint the Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs and provide for the employment of all such other personnel as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of Sections 63.1 through 63.4 of this title, and any other duties prescribed by law. The salary and tenure of the Director of the Department shall be determined by the Commission; and
3. To approve all claims or expenditures from such appropriations as may be made to the Commission prior to the payment thereof except as may be otherwise provided by law.
Added by Laws 1974, p. 580, § 3, emerg. eff. April 24, 1947. Amended by Laws 1979, c. 5, § 1, operative July 1, 1979; Laws 1981, c. 169, § 3, emerg. eff. May 13, 1981; Laws 1985, c. 178, § 67, operative July 1, 1985; Laws 2014, c. 262, § 4, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.4. Partial invalidity.

It is the intention of the Legislature to enact each and every part of this act and if any section, paragraph, sentence, item or clause of this act shall for any reason be held unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this act.
Laws 1947, p. 580, § 5, emerg. eff. April 24, 1947.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.5. Collections from patients and members for care and maintenance.

The Oklahoma Veterans Commission is hereby authorized to make collections from eligible patients and members for care and maintenance. Payments shall be established in the following manner:
1. All sources of personal income, except wages of a working spouse, except as provided in this section, shall be considered when computing care and maintenance charges including pensions and awards for aid and attendance from the Veterans Administration;
2. Care and maintenance charges shall be computed in a manner to maximize the Veterans Administration pension and compensation benefits to which the veteran is entitled and shall allow a veteran to retain not less than One Hundred Fifty Dollars ($150.00) per month of total monthly income;
3. The care and maintenance charge shall not exceed the full cost of care minus the Veterans Administration per diem payment;
4. Spouses, widows and widowers of eligible war veterans are authorized to be admitted and maintained in the State Veterans Homes. The facilities admitting and maintaining spouses, widows and widowers shall make collections from the spouses, widows and widowers first and to the fullest extent from sources of income other than pension and compensation paid by the Veterans Administration; and
5. The claim of the state for such care and maintenance shall constitute a valid indebtedness against any such patient or member and the patient's estate and shall not be barred by any statute of limitations except as otherwise allowed by the Oklahoma Indigent Health Care Act. At the death of the patient or member, this claim shall be allowed and paid as other lawful claims against the estate. Provided, no admission of a veteran of a period of war, as referenced in 38 U.S.C., Section 1521 or detention of a patient in a State Veterans Home shall be limited or conditioned in any manner by the lack of ability to pay of a patient or member, the patient's estate, or any relative of the patient or member. Any monies collected by the provisions of this section shall be deposited in the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Revolving Fund.
Added by Laws 1961, p. 704, § 5, emerg. eff. July 31, 1961. Amended by Laws 1981, c. 169, § 4, emerg. eff. May 13, 1981; Laws 1984, c. 249, § 5, operative July 1, 1984; Laws 1987, c. 206, § 80, operative July 1, 1987; Laws 1987, c. 236, § 38, emerg. eff. July 20, 1987; Laws 1992, c. 204, § 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1992; Laws 2014, c. 212, § 3, eff. Nov. 1, 2014; Laws 2017, c. 152, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2017; Laws 2022, c. 83, § 8, emerg. eff. April 25, 2022.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.5a. Authorization through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid and Medicare Services.

A. The Department of Veterans Affairs is authorized to obtain certification through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and accept payments and reimbursements from Medicare and Medicaid programs for services provided through Oklahoma Veterans Centers.
B. The Oklahoma Veterans Commission is authorized to promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this section.
Added by Laws 2018, c. 89, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2018.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.6. Workers' compensation for certain employees of State War Veterans Home Facilities.

The Oklahoma Veterans Commission is hereby authorized and empowered to provide workers' compensation insurance for all guards, motor vehicle operators, maintenance personnel, registered nurses, registered practical nurses and attendants employed by the institutions included in the Oklahoma State War Veterans Home Facilities.
Added by Laws 1961, p. 593, § 1, emerg. eff. Aug. 7, 1961. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 4, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.7. Requirements for administrative personnel.

No funds shall be expended for the employment or salary of any administrative personnel not under the provisions of the State Merit System of Personnel Administration, at any facility under the direct supervision and jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, unless honorably discharged veterans were given priority consideration.
Added by Laws 1972, c. 139, § 6, emerg. eff. April 7, 1972. Amended by Laws 1973, c. 249, § 6, emerg. eff. May 24, 1973; Laws 1981, c. 169, § 5, emerg. eff. May 13, 1981; Laws 2014, c. 212, § 5, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.7A. Classification of certain positions to Merit System of Personnel Administration.

A. Effective July 1, 1994, unclassified Department of Veterans Affairs' employees who were transferred from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Veterans Affairs on July 1, 1991, pursuant to Section 63.18 of this title, shall become permanent classified employees and subject to the provisions of the Merit System of Personnel Administration pursuant to Section 840.13 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes without regard to qualifications or examinations. Such employees shall be granted permanent status in the class to which the position occupied by the employee on the effective date of this act is allocated by the Office of Personnel Management. This section shall not apply to employees who are in the unclassified service pursuant to Section 63.18A of this title and Sections 840.8 and 840.10 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes.
B. Except as provided in Sections 63.9 and 63.18A of this title and Sections 840.8 and 840.10 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes, all officers, positions and employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs and its constituent institutions shall be subject to the provisions of the Merit System of Personnel Administration as created by the Oklahoma Personnel Act, Section 840.1 et seq. of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes and the rules promulgated thereunder.
C. Nothing contained herein shall prevent the Department of Veterans Affairs from utilizing its authority to appoint or retain employees in the unclassified service pursuant to Sections 63.9 and 63.18A of this title and Sections 840.8 and 840.10 of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes which are not in direct conflict with this section.
Added by Laws 1987, c. 206, § 81, operative July 1, 1987 and Laws 1987, c. 236, § 39, emerg. eff. July 20, 1987. Amended by Laws 1994, c. 333, § 1, emerg. eff. June 8, 1994.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.8. Administration of various departments, agencies and funds.

The Oklahoma Veterans Commission shall have the authority to administer the affairs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and to enter into agreements with the State Department of Rehabilitation Services for the vocational rehabilitation of disabled veterans in the Oklahoma State Veterans Centers. The Commission shall act as the funding agency for the State Accrediting Agency and provide office space for the staff of the agency. The State Accrediting Agency shall pay to the Commission their pro rata share of utilities and telephone service.
Added by Laws 1973, c. 249, § 3, emerg. eff. May 24, 1973. Amended by Laws 1981, c. 169, § 6, emerg. eff. May 13, 1981; Laws 1982, c. 303, § 9, operative July 1, 1982; Laws 1983, c. 176, § 1, emerg. eff. June 7, 1983; Laws 1993, c. 364, § 21, emerg. eff. June 11, 1993; Laws 2014, c. 212, § 6, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.9. Muskogee and Tulsa Claims Offices - Managers and assistant managers.

The Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs is authorized to employ a manager and an assistant manager for the Muskogee Claims Office and for the Tulsa Claims Office whose positions shall be unclassified and exempt from the rules and procedures of the Merit System of Personnel Administration, except leave regulations. Personnel employed in these classifications at the time of the passage and approval of this act may elect to remain in the classified service and be subject to the merit system rules and regulations.
Laws 1980, c. 219, § 7, emerg. eff. May 30, 1980; Laws 1981, c. 169, § 7, emerg. eff. May 13, 1981.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.10. Employee training programs - Funding - Salary, tuition, and subsistence contracts.

A. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs is hereby authorized to establish within the Department or within any of the institutions operated by the Department training programs to train necessary personnel for the Department or its institutions, or may arrange for programs with any public or private school, entity or institution. Training may occur individually pursuant to the Quality Workforce for Oklahoma's Heroes Act. Funds of the Department or its institutions may be used to pay salaries or tuition and subsistence for employees or prospective employees in the training programs, pursuant to the provisions of subsection B of this section.
B. Any employee or prospective employee who, while receiving such training is paid a salary, or for whom tuition and subsistence are furnished shall enter into a contract with the Department prior to receiving any payment for salary, tuition, or subsistence. The contract shall be in accordance with the rules and regulations promulgated by the Oklahoma Veterans Commission and shall include a stipulation that, unless the employee or prospective employee continues in the employ of the Department for a period of time that is greater than or equal to the length of the training, the employee or prospective employee shall reimburse the Department or institution for the amount of money paid to or for him or her by the Department during the training period.
Added by Laws 1983, c. 140, § 1, emerg. eff. May 23, 1983. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 7, eff. Nov. 1, 2014; Laws 2022, c. 71, § 1, emerg. eff. April 25, 2022.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.10a. Department of Veterans Affairs on-the-job employee safety program.

It is the intent of the Legislature that the promotion of safety in the workplace is a legitimate public purpose. In order to establish a public employee benefit program to encourage safety in the workplace, the Department of Veterans Affairs is hereby directed to establish an on-the-job employee safety program which encourages work unit safety and reduces lost productivity and compensation costs. In order to promote job safety in work units and provide recognition for work units with exceptional safety records, the Department of Veterans Affairs is authorized to expend from monies available in the State Department of Veterans Affairs Revolving Fund so much thereof as may be necessary to provide incentive awards for safety-related job performance. However, no employee shall be recognized more than once per calendar year, and the award shall not exceed the value of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00).
Added by Laws 2000, c. 338, § 2, eff. July 1, 2000.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.11. State flag for certain deceased national guard members and peace officers.

A. The Oklahoma Veterans Commission shall furnish an Oklahoma state flag to drape the casket of each Oklahoma National Guard member or Oklahoma peace officer, as defined in Section 3311 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, who dies in the line of duty, unless the member or officer is otherwise entitled to a United States flag. The state flag shall be a service benefit of each Oklahoma National Guard member and Oklahoma peace officer.
B. After burial of the deceased Oklahoma National Guard member or Oklahoma peace officer, the flag so furnished shall be given to his or her next of kin. If no claim is made by the next of kin, the flag may be given to a close friend or associate of the deceased upon request by such friend or associate to the Oklahoma Veterans Commission. If the flag is given to a close friend or associate of the deceased, no flag shall be given to any other person on account of the death of the Oklahoma National Guard member or Oklahoma peace officer.
Added by Laws 1984, c. 17, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 1984. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 8, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.11a. State flag for death of soldiers - Letter of condolence.

A. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services shall, from the effective date of this act, furnish an Oklahoma state flag to any member of the United States Armed Forces, including the National Guard or Armed Forces reserve, who is either killed in the line of duty in a combat zone or dies of wounds inflicted in a combat zone and who, at the time of death, was a resident of this state or whose surviving spouse, or parents, if no surviving spouse, are residents of this state.
B. The Governor's office shall alert the Office of Management and Enterprise Services upon the death of any Oklahoma member of the United States Armed Forces. Prior to sending the flag to the deceased's spouse or parents, the Office of Management and Enterprise Services shall alert the deceased's member of the State Senate and House of Representatives so that a letter of condolence may be sent with the flag. The Oklahoma flag shall be mailed to the surviving spouse, or parents if no surviving spouse, by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services.
C. All United States flags and all Oklahoma flags purchased by the state or political subdivisions shall be manufactured in the United States.
Added by Laws 2010, c. 75, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2010. Amended by Laws 2012, c. 304, § 646.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.12. Lease and/or loan agreement for hospital or health care facilities improvements.

The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, acting by and through the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, shall be authorized to enter into lease and/or loan agreements with local public trusts operating in and around any proposed facilities of the Department for the purpose of obtaining financing for the acquisition, construction, additions to or improvement of hospital or health care facilities operated by the Department whether existing or to be acquired.
Added by Laws 1985, c. 295, § 4, emerg. eff. July 24, 1985. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 9, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.13. Power to be exercised in conjunction with local public trust.

The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, acting by and through the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, in conjunction with the local public trust may:
1. Make and enter into all contracts and agreements necessary or incidental to the performance of its duties and the execution of its powers pursuant to the provisions of this act, and particularly without limiting the generality of this section, to make and enter into contracts and agreements with the separate instrumentalities, departments and agencies of the State of Oklahoma and/or federal government, in order to effectuate the financing of the hospital and health care facilities;
2. Employ legal counsel, and contract for investment and trustee banking services, and credit support or enhancements, as may be necessary in the judgment of the local public trust, and to fix the fees, charges and compensation therefor; provided, that all such fees and expenses shall be payable solely from the proceeds of the bonds, or any investment earnings thereon, issued pursuant to the provisions of this and/or any other legally available source;
3. Do all things necessary or convenient to implement the powers expressly granted pursuant to the provisions of this act.
Added by Laws 1985, c. 295, § 5, emerg. eff. July 24, 1985. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 10, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.14. Payment of certain bonds.

The bonds issued by the local public trust, working in conjunction with the Department of Veterans Affairs, acting by and through the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, shall be payable from the following:
1. Fees, charges and payments, including any federal subsidies, grants or contributions, received in respect to providing health care to veteran patients at such facilities acquired, constructed and equipped with the proceeds of said bonds;
2. Appropriations made in any fiscal year to the Department of Veterans Affairs for defraying costs associated with said facilities; and
3. Any other legally available source.
Added by Laws 1985, c. 295, § 6, emerg. eff. July 24, 1985. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 11, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.15. Cooperative agreements with local public trusts.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, acting by and through the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, is directed to cooperate with local public trusts, either existing or to be formed, and to enter into all requisite agreements and contracts in order to issue bonds for the purposes prescribed herein.
Added by Laws 1985, c. 295, § 7, emerg. eff. July 24, 1985. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 12, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.17. Limits on expenditure for capital projects.

Except as otherwise provided by Section 63.16 of this title, unless the Department of Veterans Affairs Trust Fund contains the minimum amount required by Section 63.1 et seq. of this title, the Department of Veterans Affairs, whether acting through the Oklahoma Veterans Commission or any other entity, shall not be authorized to expend any appropriated monies or monies in any revolving fund for any capital project, unless such capital project:
1. Has been undertaken as of June 25, 1986, or unless the project is included in the approved fiscal year 1986 Budget Work Program for the Department of Veterans Affairs;
2. Is required for repairs of an emergency nature; or
3. Is required to proceed with the development of a new Oklahoma Veterans Center facility at Lawton, Oklahoma, pursuant to Section 221.2A of this title.
Added by Laws 1986, c. 313, § 7, emerg. eff. June 25, 1986. Amended by Laws 1997, c. 125, § 3, emerg. eff. April 16, 1997; Laws 2014, c. 212, § 14, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.18A. Department of Veterans Affairs - Unclassified positions and personnel.

The following positions and personnel at the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs shall be in the unclassified service as provided in the Oklahoma Personnel Act:
1. Physicians assistants;
2. Occupational therapists;
3. Physical therapists;
4. Pharmacists;
5. Speech pathologists;
6. Nurse practitioners;
7. Physical therapy assistants;
8. Administrative Assistant to the Director;
9. Programs Administrators;
10. Administrators, Veterans Centers; and
11. Assistant Administrators, Veterans Centers.
Added by Laws 1993, c. 213, § 1, emerg. eff. May 24, 1993. Amended by Laws 2002, c. 478, § 1, eff. July 1, 2002; Laws 2004, c. 462, § 2, eff. July 1, 2004.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.20. Deposit of proceeds.

All proceeds derived from the use, sale or lease of properties under the control of the Oklahoma Veterans Commission shall be deposited in the Capital Improvement Program Revolving Fund created by Section 63.19 of this title to be expended according to law.
Added by Laws 1999, c. 348, § 6, eff. July 1, 1999. Amended by Laws 2003, c. 115, § 1, eff. July 1, 2003; Laws 2014, c. 212, § 15, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.
2023 Oklahoma Statutes › Title 72. Soldiers and Sailors › §72-63.21. Certified volunteers - Provision of meals for services rendered.

The Oklahoma Veterans Commission is authorized to provide meals to certified volunteers for services rendered in all facilities operated under the control of the Oklahoma Veterans Commission.
Added by Laws 2000, c. 160, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2000. Amended by Laws 2014, c. 212, § 16, eff. Nov. 1, 2014.