Representative Scott Fegatter’s goal of creating a license for professional storm chasers in Oklahoma took a step toward reality this week. The House Business Committee passed House Bill 2426 by a margin of nine to zero.
The license will give professional storm chasers special accommodation during severe weather events. They must be affiliated with a media outlet or research program at specified universities.
“Tornadoes do a tremendous amount of damage in our state to families, homes, businesses and other structures,” Fetgatter said. “Storm chasers provide an invaluable service in keeping the public informed about the track of a storm, often providing the first warning for people to take cover. This undoubtedly saves lives.”
Fegatter says that while the bill is a work in progress, the idea isn’t to limit who can chase storms. His bill is not intended to restrict amateur storm chasing.
Instead, the measure would allow licensed professional storm trackers to be considered first responders. The Oklahoma Insurance Department would manage the program. The fee is not to exceed $500, and renewals will be capped at $250.
Fegatter points to a recent severe weather event where the radar failed to pick up a tornado, but spotters were able to warn local residents.
“We love storm chasing in Oklahoma. We’ve made movies about storm chasing in this state. Nothing in this bill will stop this most American of rights,” Fetgatter said. “But we have to be able to give professional severe weather trackers the ability to chase storms without being impeded.”
HB 2426 now moves to the Committee on Commerce & Economic Development Oversight.
