Oklahoma enacts law targeting World Health Organization, United Nations mandates

"This legislation stands as a testament to our commitment to protecting the rights and liberties of Oklahomans," one of the bill's authors said.

By Madeleine Hubbard

Published: June 9, 2024 3:27pm

Oklahoma Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a bill that targets all mandates that the World Health Organization, the United Nations and the World Economic Forum may issue.

The three international organizations "have no jurisdiction in this state," the legislation, which became law Wednesday, states.

Any mandate issued by the groups "shall not be used in this state as a basis for action," the law also states.

After the bill became a law, Oklahoma GOP Sen. George Burns, a co-author of the legislation, said: "This legislation stands as a testament to our commitment to protecting the rights and liberties of Oklahomans. By prohibiting the enforcement of mandates and recommendations from the World Health Organization, the United Nations, or the World Economic Forum, we ensure that the decisions affecting our residents are made by their elected representatives and local authorities."

The bill comes as Republicans are expressing concerns that the World Health Assembly may expand the powers of the World Health Organization through a pandemic treaty that could pass as soon as this month.

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