Bill > HB3278

This bill amends the Open Meeting Act to grant the Attorney General new powers to address violations by public bodies, agencies, or officers, in addition to existing criminal and civil penalties. Specifically, the Attorney General can now investigate alleged violations and, if the evidence supports it, either enter into a "consent order" with the offending entity or issue a "finding of violation." A consent order, which requires the signature of the responsible party, can include requirements like mandatory training on the Open Meeting Act for first-time offenders or civil penalties of up to $150 for subsequent violations, and must state that the entity will comply with the Act. A finding of violation can similarly require the entity to stop violating the Act, comply with its provisions, complete training, and pay civil penalties of up to $300 per violation. The Attorney General can also demand proof of compliance with these orders or findings and, if necessary, seek enforcement in district court, which can then issue its own order for compliance, impose civil penalties, and award court costs and attorney fees to the Attorney General, especially in cases of bad-faith violations. The bill also outlines procedures for serving findings of violation and specifies which district court has jurisdiction for enforcement actions, with a general effective date of January 1, 2027.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3278&Session=2600