Oklahoma House Bill HB1913

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; allowing certain appointed members to seek succeeding terms by retention ballot; modifying means of removal; effective date.

Impact

By allowing for successive terms without limit, the bill alters the landscape of governance within the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority. Appointed members of the Authority can now potentially remain in office for an extended duration, providing continuity which may benefit the planning and execution of turnpike projects. However, this may also raise concerns about the entrenchment of leadership, as members can be retained indefinitely based on electoral approval.

Summary

House Bill 1913 amends the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority's governing structure by allowing appointed members to seek retention in their positions via a ballot during general elections. The bill stipulates that members can file a declaration of candidacy with the Secretary of State at least sixty days prior to the elections and that this decision is subject to a majority vote by constituents within the respective districts. The intention behind this bill is to formalize a process that could promote accountability and stability among the Authority's leadership.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 1913 include debates on the extent of gubernatorial influence over the Authority, the risk of political patronage, and concerns that this change could detract from local voter influence. Opponents worry that perpetual incumbency could diminish accountability and responsiveness of Authority members to the electorate's needs, while supporters contend that it will foster a more experienced leadership capable of managing complex and long-term infrastructure projects effectively.