OPEA

As part of its efforts to encourage accountability in state government, the Oklahoma Public Employees Association today announced its support of SB 1, known as the “Taxpayer Transparency Act,” by Senator Randy Brogdon, as it awaits action by Governor Brad Henry.

“OPEA supports open government,” said Executive Director Sterling Zearley. “All state agency budgets, as well as the paychecks of our members, are public record. With this in mind, citizens of this state have a right to know who is receiving tax breaks, which are essentially taxpayer-funded assistance. Any entity that is against this kind of transparency is against full disclosure, which allows for abuse.”

Brogdon’s measure calls for the Office of State Finance to create a website for the citizens of Oklahoma to view the expenditures of state government.

“Oklahoma state government is one of the most efficient in the nation, ranking last in spending,” continued Zearley. “However, there is always room for improvement. OPEA welcomes taxpayer input and performance audits to improve the services we provide to the people of our great state.”

Zearley adds that, according to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, Oklahoma ranked 50th in the nation in per capita state and local government expenditures in 2004.

“Our membership believes that all aspects of Oklahoma taxpayer funds should be open to public scrutiny, including the expenditures of higher and common education, which receive over half of the state budget,” continued Zearley. “We encourage our members, as well as all Oklahomans interested in good government, to contact the Governor in support of this measure.”