Senate approves bill to ensure transparent state Capitol and governor’s mansion maintenance projects

OKLAHOMA CITY – A Senate bill is on its way to the House of Representatives ensuring the long-term maintenance of the state Capitol, governor’s mansion and grounds is strategic and transparent to the public. Senate Bill 141 by Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, was approved by the full Senate Thursday. The House principal author is Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore.

“This is the people’s house. I’m honored to pass this legislation to make sure that it remains in excellent condition, open to the public, and accessible to all,” Kirt said. “There are many tenants housed in the Capitol, including the House, Senate and multiple executive agencies. In the past we have had little coordination to ensure we are investing in building maintenance and upgrades transparently and in the best interest of the public. This bill creates a uniform oversight structure to ensure our State Capitol is taken care of in a way this building and its history deserve.”

Prior to the eight-year, $280 million Capitol restoration project, Kirt said the building had many problems risking safety and accessibility for Oklahomans and the hundreds of state employees working at the Capitol, including fire alarm systems that didn’t communicate properly with each other and a host of practical and cosmetic issues.

“We must ensure these investments yield returns for the people of Oklahoma for years to come,” Kirt said. “The public deserves to have access to the historic beauty of our Capitol and governor’s mansion and to enjoy them.”

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For more information, contact:

Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov