Bergstrom files bill to enhance rule oversight

OKLAHOMA CITY- On Monday, Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, filed Senate Bill 1217, a critical initiative aimed at fortifying oversight and accountability within state agencies. SB 1217 would establish a robust mechanism for systematically reviewing all new rules and those already on the books by creating the Administrative Rules Division within the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency (LOFT).

Once approved, permanent rules carry the weight of law, potentially influencing the daily lives of Oklahomans. The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that every rule serves the best interests of the people, reminding bureaucrats that their primary duty is to the citizens of Oklahoma.

"Senate Bill 1217 is a crucial step in safeguarding the well-being of Oklahomans by putting in place a rigorous process for reviewing and evaluating new and existing rules,” Bergstrom said. “We must ensure that these rules serve the people, not burdening them with unnecessary complexities or additional expenses."

The legislative proposal establishes the Administrative Rules Division within the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency, focusing on aligning the rule-making process with legislative intent. By creating a structured framework for rule evaluation, the bill aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the implementation of laws.

Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, is the House principal author of the bill.

“It's incredibly vital that the state agencies funded by Oklahoma taxpayers are routinely subject to performance evaluations to ensure they are being held accountable to our citizens," Kendrix said. "We must establish a new process to assist in this process by using the resources currently available to us, and LOFT is well-equipped to handle this need."

SB 1217 can be considered when the legislative session begins on February 5, 2024.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Micheal Bergstrom at 405-521-5561 or email Micheal.Bergstrom@oksenate.gov