Oklahoma Senate Bill SJR32

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Constitutional amendment; requiring Legislature to create mission statements for state agencies and entities; requiring Legislature to define measurable goals for each state agency and entity.

Impact

The implications of SJR32 are significant for the structure of governmental agencies in Oklahoma. By establishing clear mission statements and tying funding to measurable outcomes, the proposed amendment is intended to streamline state operations and reduce wasteful spending. Noncompliance with these provisions could result in the seizure of funds, which would be redirected to the state's rainy day fund. This strict enforcement mechanism aims to motivate compliance among agencies and encourage a results-oriented approach to governance.

Summary

SJR32 is a proposed amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution that aims to enhance oversight and accountability among state agencies. Specifically, it mandates the Legislature to create a mission statement for every new state agency or entity and requires measurable goals to be defined for each agency's operations. This includes a two-year window for the Legislature to codify such mission statements for existing agencies. The amendment seeks to ensure that every dollar spent by the state corresponds to a clearly defined and legislatively approved mission, thus promoting efficiency and transparency within the state's administrative framework.

Contention

The proposed amendment may also raise concerns regarding the flexibility of state agencies to adapt to unforeseen challenges or changing needs of constituents. Opponents may argue that the rigidity in requiring a mission statement and measurable goals could stifle innovation or responsiveness, particularly in areas where quantifying outcomes is difficult. Furthermore, the provision that allows substantial government officials and groups of legislators to sue for enforcement may introduce a new layer of political complexity and potential litigation within state operations.