OKLAHOMA CITY – Two interim legislative studies this month will address issues that are facing many Oklahomans: access to affordable childcare and medical debt.
“I am committed to being a problem solver who focuses on issues that Oklahomans care about the most,” said Rep. Suzanne Schreiber (D-Tulsa). “Removing the number one barrier to recruiting and retaining a strong workforce and promoting medical transparency are both conversations I’m excited to bring to the State Capitol.”
Forty-four percent of Oklahoma – 34 of the 77 counties – is considered a childcare desert, areas that “do not have access to a childcare facility,” Schreiber said. “This study will lean on childcare experts so we can move Oklahoma in the right direction. It’s crucial that the Legislature take the necessary steps to bring common sense solutions to this issue.”
Addressing access to childcare is “fundamental to the growth and sustainability of Oklahoma’s economy, and at the same time, taking care of Oklahoma’s families,” Schreiber said. “Breaking down these barriers serves our employers too. When we strengthen the childcare industry, we strengthen all industries.”
Twenty-two percent of Oklahomans have medical debt in collections, records indicate. “Such a large number of affected people warrants a close look to uncover what is contributing to this statistic, and how lawmakers can help Oklahoma families avoid that burden while ensuring providers get paid,” Schreiber said. Experts invited to the interim study are expected to discuss current debt collection laws, the importance of medical price transparency and what other states have done to address this issue.
Oklahoma has the third highest medical debt in the U.S., Schreiber said, “and for those who carry it or have carried it – it is a heavy burden and presents individuals with extremely difficult choices.” Her interim study will examine how price transparency relates to medical debt as well as other causes of Oklahoma’s significantly high rates of medical debt and what legislative reliefs are available to help individuals better manage their healthcare costs.
The study of accessible and affordable childcare is scheduled for 1 p.m. Oct. 26 in Room 4S5 at the State Capitol, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd. It will be heard by the House Children, Youth, and Family Committee.
The study of medical debt is scheduled for 1 p.m. Oct. 30 in Room 5S2 at the Capitol. It will be heard by the House Public Health Committee.
Interim studies are open to the public and are live-streamed on the House website