Bill to Enhance OTA's Transparency and Accountability Advances
OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 1939, authored by Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, passed the Transportation Committee today. The bill is a legislative initiative that aims to increase transparency, collaboration, and accountability in the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority's (OTA) decision-making processes. The bill also seeks to ensure that turnpike projects undergo thorough studies and extensive public engagement before implementation. HB1939 introduces several modifications to the OTA’s responsibilities, including a requirement to conduct comprehensive studies before proposing new turnpike projects. These studies would evaluate potential routes, economic feasibility, environmental impact and community effects, ensuring a data-driven and transparent approach to infrastructure planning. “This legislation is about bringing more accountability and public participation into decisions that impact our communities,” Sterling said. “The people of Oklahoma deserve to have a voice in turnpike projects that affect their homes, businesses and local environment. House Bill 1939 ensures that these projects are not only necessary but also thoughtfully planned and aligned with the needs of the community.” Another aspect of the bill is that it would require the OTA to engage in meaningful collaboration with municipalities, counties and state and federal agencies that may be affected by proposed turnpike projects. The bill would mandate direct notifications via certified mail to property owners within a one-mile radius of any proposed turnpike route, giving them ample opportunity to provide feedback and participate in public meetings. Furthermore, HB1939 would establish clear guidelines for public meetings in each affected jurisdiction, ensuring that community concerns are heard and addressed. The bill would also enforce stricter conflict-of-interest policies to separate consulting firms conducting impact studies from those involved in turnpike design and construction. “This is about making sure Oklahomans are not left in the dark when it comes to major infrastructure developments,” added Sterling. “We are putting in place safeguards to protect the interests of the people and to create a fair, transparent process that prioritizes responsible transportation planning.” With a 9-3 passing vote, HB1939 now heads to the Commerce and Economic Development Oversight Committee.