Bill > HB3281

This bill, known as the Guidance Transparency Act, amends the state's Administrative Procedures Act to increase transparency regarding agency guidance documents, which are official statements or interpretations on legal, regulatory, or technical issues that are not considered major rules (defined as those costing $1 million or more over five years to implement or comply with) or nonmajor rules. The bill mandates that agencies must make these guidance documents, along with their exempt rules, available for public inspection on their websites and at their principal offices. Furthermore, agencies are required to submit all guidance documents to the Secretary of State on a quarterly basis for publication in an indexed, searchable electronic format, with a clear statement that these documents do not have the force of law unless otherwise authorized or incorporated into a contract or legal decision. The Secretary of State will maintain a record of these published guidance documents, including notices of any amendments or rescissions, ensuring that the public can access the most current and historical versions. The bill also clarifies that agencies cannot use internal policies or memorandums to amend, interpret, or expand upon statutes or rules, and any such actions are considered null and void. This legislation is set to become effective on November 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3281&Session=2600