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. Instead of solely relying on criminal penalties or civil lawsuits initiated by individuals, the Attorney General can now investigate alleged violations and, if 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 admissions of fact, mandatory training on the Open Meeting Act for first-time offenders, civil penalties of up to $150 for repeat violations, and an agreement to comply with the law. A finding of violation can require the entity to stop violating the law, comply with its provisions, undergo 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. If the public body, agency, or officer fails to comply, the Attorney General can seek enforcement in district court, which can then issue court orders for compliance, impose civil penalties, and award court costs and attorney fees to the Attorney General, especially if the violation was made in bad faith. The bill also outlines how these findings of violation should be served and requires the Attorney General to make these documents publicly available, defining which district court has jurisdiction based on the type of entity involved. This legislation aims to provide more immediate and accessible enforcement mechanisms for open meeting law violations, with an effective date of January 1, 2027.

Justice

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