2-1-1 hotline funding measure becomes law

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Jo Anna Dossett, D-Tulsa, and Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso, are celebrating the governor’s signing of Senate Bill 1290. The bill creates the 2-1-1 Hotline Revolving Fund for the purpose of maintaining a robust 2-1-1 system available to all Oklahomans in need of assistance with utility bills, rent, food, transportation, healthcare, and more.

“The state withdrew all funding from 2-1-1 nearly a decade ago during a painful budget year,” Dossett said. “Since then, the philanthropic and non-profit communities in Tulsa and Oklahoma City have funded, overseen, and operated 2-1-1, serving Oklahomans in all 77 counties. SB 1290’s passage into law finalizes a long effort to commit public dollars back to 2-1-1. The fund created in SB 1290 will soon receive $3 million as part of this year’s state budget agreement.”

"Senate Bill 1290 becoming law means Oklahomans in need of help with rent, food, utilities, health care and other essential services will have a reliable place to turn," Norwood said. "We heard the need, and we understand how critical it is that someone answers when people don’t know where else to go. This consistent funding will make a meaningful difference for communities across our state and ensure the lifeline that connects individuals in real time to real help is solid."

Dossett and Norwood are grateful to their legislative colleagues and respective appropriations committees, and to the governor, for their willingness to support this important effort.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Jo Anna Dossett at (405) 521-5624 or JoAnna.Dossett@oksenate.gov