Enid, OK – A new bill introduced in the Oklahoma State Legislature seeks to establish a formal framework for severe weather trackers operating within the state. Senate Bill 158, authored by Senator Mark Mann (D-District 46), is titled the Oklahoma Emergency Weather Response and Tracking Regulatory Act of 2025.
The bill proposes a set of requirements for individuals working as professional severe weather trackers in Oklahoma. Among the proposed regulations are the need to pass a criminal background check, maintain valid vehicle insurance, and secure a letter of endorsement from a licensed meteorologist or other designated official.
The proposed legislation also includes a licensing fee of $500, with an annual renewal cost of $250. This would create an official credentialing system for severe weather trackers, a move that supporters argue could improve safety and professionalism in storm tracking activities.
Violations of the provisions outlined in the bill could result in fines of up to $500 or the revocation of a tracker’s license. The intent behind these penalties is to ensure compliance with the law and safeguard public safety during severe weather events.
Should SB 158 pass, the regulations would take effect on July 1, 2025. The bill aims to provide a clearer framework for the growing number of individuals who track storms and tornadoes across the state, a role that has become increasingly popular in Oklahoma, where severe weather is a regular occurrence.
While the bill has gained attention, it has also raised questions about its potential impact on the community of weather enthusiasts and professional trackers who have long operated without formal regulation. Proponents of the bill argue that it would increase accountability and safety, while critics have raised concerns over whether it could hinder the ability of storm chasers to operate freely in an area where timely, accurate weather information is crucial.
The legislation is still in its early stages, and if passed, it will likely continue to be a topic of debate as it moves through the legislative process.
