Representative Neil Hays

R

District 13

Hi, I'm Neil Hays and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 13th District.

representative

News & Announcements

Mar 22, 2023
Recent Posts

House Passes Bill to Offer Mental Health Coverage to First Responders

OKLAHOMA CITY –  The Oklahoma House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation to offer mental health coverage to first responders. Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah, filed House Bill 2398, which would offer mental health coverage to first responders through Oklahoma's workers' compensation insurance laws without a physical injury present. Currently, first responders are excluded from coverage unless an underlying physical injury exists. "First responders are an imperative part of our communities, and we owe it to them and their families to protect them," Hays said. "This bill takes an essential step toward ensuring that first responders have access to mental health services. It's time for us to help those who serve us daily." HB2398 would allow a first responder who is deemed unable to temporarily work by a physician to receive 70% of their average weekly pay up to the state average wage or the greater of the weekly benefit provided in an employer's policy. Under HB2398, a first responder who cannot return to work after maximum medical improvement may be given permanent disability benefits. If a first responder is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, the employer will provide treatment for up to one year but is not responsible for prescription medication expenses exceeding $10,000. HB2398 passed the House floor 84-5 and now moves to the Senate.

Mar 15, 2023
Recent Posts

House Approves Legislation to Protect First and Second Responders

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah, secured passage of a bill addressing the state's current "Slow Down, Move Over" law. House Bill 2684 would mandate drivers approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle to reduce their speed to at least 10 miles per hour below the posted speed limit and increases fines for non-compliance. HB2684, the "John Mills Bill," is named after John Mills, a tow truck operator from District 13 who was killed this past Nov. 2022 along Highway 69. It adds the name Mills to Bernardo's Law. "While this bill's need saddens me, I am honored to run it to recognize John Mills' legacy," Hays said. "I encourage all Oklahomans to pay attention to the highways so our first responders, second responders and emergency workers can stay safe while doing their job." If a person violates this provision, they will be found guilty of endangerment of an emergency worker. The fine for non-compliance would be $5,000 if the offense resulted in injury to an emergency responder and $10,000 if the crime resulted in an emergency responder's death. HB2684 passed the House 86-0. It now moves to the Senate.