Senate Pro Tem’s proposed car tag legislation passes Aeronautics, Transportation Committee

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — After a serious accident left Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat’s son in critical condition, the Aeronautics and Transportation Committee unanimously passed Senate Bill 2035—a bill that would change state car tag laws in an effort to protect Oklahoma drivers.

“I appreciate the bipartisan support from my Senate colleagues on this important piece of legislation,” Pro Tem Treat said. “My son Mason’s life was almost taken from our family, as well as the life of a sheriff’s deputy, because of a law that required him to drive without a license plate. Luckily, and by the grace of God, both Mason and the deputy are recovering.

“Mason was in compliance with the current law. But he didn’t have a tag on his car because of the law. I am determined to get this legislation passed. I don’t want to see any other Oklahoman’s life and safety compromised as a result of the inadequacy of the current law. This bill will save lives and help law enforcement focus on vehicles that are truly out of compliance.”

‘We will fix this’: Senate Pro Tem, county clerk promise change following son’s shocking crash

Current state law requires private sellers to keep a motor vehicle tag after selling a car. This law is what led to a traffic stop where Treat’s son, Mason, was pulled over on the side of the road.

A drowsy driver in a truck then struck Mason’s car, sending the OHP trooper making the stop flying and leaving Mason in critical condition.

SB 2035 would change the current law to make vehicle tags transferable between owners, which would prevent roadside stops that could possibly put other Oklahoma drivers in danger.

Treat says he is currently working with the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, Department of Public Safety, Service Oklahoma and others to implement a better process.

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