Restrictions on Spending by Oklahoma State Department of Education Passed by State Senate

The Oklahoma State Senate has passed a bill that restricts spending by the State Department of Education, specifically targeting State Superintendent Ryan Walters. Senate Bill 1122 prohibits the use of state funds for media interviews, public relations, or promotional purposes, unless required for a federal grant program.

The bill, passed by a 37-4 vote, aims to provide guardrails for the Education Department, with Senator Carri Hicks stating that it does not offer true accountability. The measure now moves to the House for consideration.

In addition to this development, the Senate Education Committee approved Gov. Kevin Stitt’s appointments of Nellie Turner as secretary of education and Zachary Archer as a member of the State Board of Education. During the committee meeting, Chairman Adam Pugh reminded Archer to “vote his conscience” and emphasized that he does not work for any agency head.

Other executive nominations under the committee’s purview, including Alexander Gray and Audrey Katigan, were not heard as the committee was holding its last meeting for the legislative session. Gray was nominated for the State Board of Education, and Katigan was nominated for the Oklahoma Department of Libraries Board.

This news comes amidst ongoing discussions about accountability and transparency within the State Department of Education, highlighting the importance of oversight and responsible use of taxpayer funds.