Bill > HB1221

This bill creates the State Accounts for Federal Expenditures Act (SAFE Act), which establishes new procedures for state agencies to manage federal funding. Beginning November 1, 2025, agencies will be required to notify key legislative and executive officials before applying for competitive grants or receiving federal funds, including details about the funding source, amount, and purpose. The bill creates SAFE Accounts in the state treasury to track federal funds, which will be used for competitive grants, direct monetary payments not associated with existing federal programs, and block grants. Agencies must now obtain legislative approval through a concurrent resolution before drawing down funds for competitive grants, and the Legislature will hold formal hearings for federal monetary relief funds. The bill also amends existing state statutes to require agencies to report on federal funds received in their budget performance reviews, including specifics about competitive grants, federal legislative funds, and block grants. Notably, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation is exempt from some of these requirements for certain transportation-related grants, and existing federal program funding and unemployment dollars are also partially exempted. The act aims to increase transparency and legislative oversight of federal funding received by state agencies, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1221&Session=2600