Public finance; authorizing transfer of certain federal funds. Emergency.
Impact
The bill establishes a new law that allows for transfers of federal funds, which typically would be strictly regulated under state and federal law. It requires a joint resolution from the Legislature to specify the transfer amount and designate the recipient states. The implication of this bill is significant, as it enables Oklahoma to redirect federal resources intended for state use, thereby potentially affecting the availability of those funds for domestic purposes. It allows the Legislature to act without extensive regulatory oversight that usually applies to such funding.
Summary
Senate Bill 50, introduced by Senator Dahm, provides the Oklahoma Legislature with the authority to transfer federal funds, specifically those allocated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, to other states along the southern border with Mexico. The funds are intended to support additional border security initiatives, including the completion of the border wall. This legislative act is positioned as a measure to enhance state cooperation on border security matters during a critical time of heightened concern regarding immigration and security along the US-Mexico border.
Contention
Notably, the bill faces contention surrounding the appropriateness of transferring federal funds away from their original intended use, as critics argue this could undermine the principle of federal support for local issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, there is debate around the decision to focus state resources on border security rather than addressing local needs, such as public health or economic recovery. The urgency of the bill's enactment is justified through an emergency declaration, which aims to expedite the process amid ongoing debates about national security.
Department of Human Services; requiring certain joint approval prior to certain actions; appropriating certain federal funds for certain program; authorizing certain transfers; providing for lapse of funds under certain conditions.
Mental health; requiring the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to issue certain request for proposals subject to availability of funds; transferring certain duties. Effective date. Emergency.
Public finance; Large-scale Economic Activity and Development Act of 2022; modifying certain job threshold requirement; requiring transfer of funds if certain commitment is not received by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce by certain date. Emergency.
Public finance; directing State Treasurer to create an investment pool; authorizing certain funds to invest in pool; authorizing purchase of and investment in debts of retirement systems. Effective date.