Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HJR1030

Introduced

2/6/23

Refer

2/7/23

Caption

Constitutional amendment; making the office of Superintendent of Public Instruction an appointed office; ballot title; filing.

Impact

Should HJR1030 be ratified, it would alter the current state laws to reflect this appointed position. The change means that voters will no longer have the opportunity to elect the Superintendent directly, which could lead to implications on how educational policies are developed and implemented. Proponents believe this will strengthen leadership consistency and alignment with the Governor's educational priorities, potentially improving educational outcomes due to more cohesive strategy and policy application.

Summary

HJR1030 proposes a significant amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution concerning the office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. The resolution seeks to transition the selection process of the Superintendent from an elected position to one that is appointed by the Governor. This change is intended to allow for a more streamlined governance structure, where the Superintendent would serve at the pleasure of the Governor, effectively changing the dynamics of accountability in education management in the state.

Contention

The amendment has already sparked debate regarding its impact on democratic participation in education. Critics assert that the change diminishes the voice of citizens in educational leadership by removing direct electoral control. They argue that an appointed Superintendent may prioritize the Governor's political agenda over the educational needs of students. Concerns are raised about the potential lack of accountability to the public if the Superintendent is no longer a directly elected official who answers to the electorate.

Further_details

The proposed amendments will become effective starting with the term of the governor who instates this change in 2030, implying that this resolution is a forward-looking decision. Legislative discussions around HJR1030 are anticipated to cover a spectrum of viewpoints, shedding light on broader themes of governance accountability, educational standards, and the relationship between state government and public education.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HJR1030

Constitutional amendment; making the office of Superintendent of Public Instruction an appointed office; ballot title; filing.

OK HJR1008

Oklahoma Constitution; candidate requirements for office of Superintendent of Public Instruction; ballot title; filing.

OK SJR6

Constitutional amendment; Judicial Nominating Commission; requiring Senate confirmation of certain judicial appointments. Ballot title.

OK ACA9

Superintendent of Public Instruction: gubernatorial appointment.

OK HJRE

Constitutional amendments: state; governor-appointed superintendent of public instruction; provide for. Amends sec. 3, art. VIII of the state constitution.

OK SB2799

Public official appointments; revise terms of office and appointment procedures on certain state boards, districts and agencies.

OK SB1328

Removal of officers; elected officers and officers appointed to elected office.

OK HJR35

Constitutional amendment to make the state superintendent of schools, a constitutional officer position, elected by the people

OK HJR1024

Oklahoma Constitution; congressional districts; terms of office; restrictions; attorneys; succession; ballot title; filing.

OK SJR31

Constitutional amendment; adding a member to the Commissioners of the Land Office.