Bergstrom issues statement on Administrative Rules Committee Hearing

OKLAHOMA CITY- On Monday, Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, released the following statement after a meeting of the Senate Administrative Rules Committee which gave members an opportunity to challenge proposed permanent rules from any agency. Most of the rules that were under review were from the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

“Interestingly, of the more than 20 SDE rules that were reviewed today there were only a handful where the merit of the policy was actually discussed, which is disappointing. Those who wished to challenge the rules did so almost entirely on the basis of a limited attorney general opinion in regard to rule making authority.

“Obviously that is something which must be taken into consideration, but the SDE spokesperson provided numerous references to other sources for their rule making authority beyond what was in the AG opinion.

“In this gathering, questions had to be limited since common sense tells you that in a meeting of less than two hours where you are looking at two dozen rules unlimited questions would result in few rules actually being reviewed.

“The Administrative Rules Committee meeting today was for members to gather information and it certainly did that. In fact, regarding SDE rules, the agency has agreed to provide answers to any questions not fully answered in committee as well as any additional concerns or questions submitted. This is being transparent and accountable while avoiding much of the politics and most of the pontificating.”

-END-

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