Oklahoma House Bill HB2385

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Soldiers and sailors; Oklahoma Veterans Commission; modifying appointment process for Commission members; effective date.

Impact

One of the most significant changes proposed in HB2385 is that it allows the Governor to appoint commission members who will serve at their pleasure, which effectively means these members can be removed or replaced without cause. This power shift indicates a greater consolidation of authority within the Governor's office regarding veterans' affairs. Furthermore, the alteration of the appointment procedure may lead to increased scrutiny of candidates as organizations will need to submit performance and financial audits to remain eligible for appointments, a measure intended to enhance transparency and accountability.

Summary

House Bill 2385 aims to amend the existing legislation governing the Oklahoma Veterans Commission by updating the appointment process for its members. The bill provides that the commission shall consist of nine members, all of whom must be honorably discharged veterans. Among these, specific representations from various veterans' organizations are mandated, including one member from the Vietnam Conflict and two members from the Persian Gulf Wars. The appointment process is designed to ensure that it reflects the diversity of Oklahoma's veteran community in terms of age, gender, and race or ethnicity.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding HB2385 argue about the balance of power in appointing authority and the implications for veterans' representation. Critics may express concerns that granting the Governor indiscriminate power to replace commission members could undermine the independence of the Oklahoma Veterans Commission and potentially politicize veterans' services. Moreover, the requirement for performance audits may be viewed as a burden by smaller veterans' organizations, which could affect their ability to participate meaningfully in the nomination process.