Oklahoma Senate Bill SB296

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Public finance; requiring the Office of Management and Enterprise Services to prepare and make available certain report. Effective date.

Impact

The introduction of SB296 represents a significant step towards greater accountability in how state agencies manage and report on federal funding. By mandating the disclosure of detailed information about the conditions attached to federal funds, the bill seeks to alleviate concerns about 'coercive federal conditions' which may impose requirements that the state may find burdensome. This could potentially influence how state agencies approach federal funding, as they must be aware of and comply with the various stipulations placed upon them.

Summary

Senate Bill 296 requires the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) to prepare and make publicly available a report that details the sources of federal funds received by state agencies exceeding $5 million. This initiative aims to enhance transparency regarding federal funding and the conditions that accompany it. The report must clearly outline the eligibility conditions tied to each funding source, thereby informing state agencies and the public about the financial dependencies of these agencies on federal funds.

Contention

There are potential points of contention related to the provisions of SB296, particularly concerning the classification of funds as 'coercive federal funds'. The bill defines these funds in a manner that emphasizes conditions which may impose restrictions on both federal and state spending. Critics might argue that this classification could deter state agencies from pursuing federal funds, fearing complex compliance requirements. Proponents, however, maintain that the bill provides necessary clarity and ensures that agencies understand the implications of accepting such funds.