The Oklahoma House passed the two remaining government accountability reform bills that are a part of an agreement between legislative leaders and the governor. Senate Bill 456 would give the governor the hiring and firing power over the Oklahoma Healthcare Authority director and Senate Bill 457 would do the same for the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.
The other three bills which give the governor hiring and firing authority over the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and the Office of Juvenile Affairs were sent to the Senate last week.
“Oklahomans expect more accountability from their government, and, right now, our agency directors and agency boards are not really accountable to anyone – including the governor,” said McCall. “This plan creates a structure that can deliver accountability much more effectively for our citizens. I am very thankful for the leadership and cooperation of Gov. Stitt and President Pro Tempore Treat in working with House Republicans to craft this agreement. These bills ensure that the governor will be the chief executive of the executive branch by allowing him to hire and fire those agency directors, and it ensures that the Legislature maintains some oversight over those agencies that spend taxpayer money.”
The agreement also gives more appointment power to the legislative leaders.
SB 456 and SB 457 are heading to the governor’s desk.
