The Latest in Oklahoma: November 1, 2024
A&A Advocates
Rep. Gerrid Kendrix and Sen. Micheal Bergstrom recently conducted an interim study on improving Oklahoma’s administrative rules process to enhance transparency, efficiency, and public engagement. They discussed working with the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office to improve public access to rulemaking processes through two websites. The first site, openmeetings.ok.gov, allows users to view and receive notifications on public body meetings, including rulemaking hearings. The second, rules.ok.gov, is a “one-stop rules portal” for accessing proposed rules. Kendrix and Bergstrom emphasized the need for a clearer, more accessible process that considers public input, aiming to make the rulemaking system more efficient and accountable to Oklahomans.
Oklahoma Chief Information Officer Joe McIntosh has agreed to a $15,000 settlement with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission over allegations of ethics violations. McIntosh, appointed as CIO in 2022, was accused of improperly participating in a software contract with his former employer, SHI International, shortly after joining the state government. The settlement, approved on October 13, includes no admission of wrongdoing by McIntosh. The allegations arose from his involvement in a contract awarded to SHI International, from which he had previously resigned as a senior manager before his state appointment. McIntosh’s attorney stated that McIntosh agreed to the settlement to avoid prolonged legal proceedings while the Oklahoma Ethics Commission considers the case resolved.
On Oklahoma’s first day of early voting, over 63,000 people turned out statewide, with Cleveland County leading in turnout at 6,586 voters—surpassing even Oklahoma and Tulsa counties. High demand led to long lines, with waits up to four hours. Oklahoma Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax noted that polling sites across the state saw lines before opening. He reminded voters that anyone in line before polls close will be allowed to vote.
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond is challenging multiple federal policies related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, emissions regulations, and electric vehicle (EV) mandates. Drummond argues these federal rules burden Oklahoma’s economy and limit state autonomy. He has filed lawsuits against various Biden administration initiatives, including restrictions on power plant emissions and policies promoting EVs. Drummond contends these regulations overstep federal authority and harm Oklahoma-related industries, such as oil and gas.
Update on Interim Studies
Interim studies continue in both chambers of the state legislature. To see updates or results, click the links to view House studiesand Senate studies.
Voting early?
Are you voting early? Click the link to learn more about polling locations and details by county.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“True independence requires not just the absence of foreign control but also a commitment to fostering the domestic economy.” Congresswoman Stephanie Bice said in a pro-American energy column this week. “It is crucial that we continue to prioritize policies which will support American energy independence and economic growth.”