By Journalist Alexandria Willard (OSU)
The OSU-521 bill, named the “Fraudulent Law” Act of 2023, presents a pivotal effort by Oklahoma to combat legislative deceit and dishonesty within the state’s political sphere. Introduced by Mitchell of OSU, this legislation seeks to redefine fraud in the context of legislation and impose severe penalties for politicians found guilty of such misconduct.
Mitchell said, “Legislatures should have the same standard on them that they oppose on everybody else. I believe that the penalties should be a little higher than they would be for fraudulent business based on the nature of the job and position they hold.”
The bill begins by setting clear definitions for crucial terms within its scope. It defines “fraud” as the deliberate use of deceit or dishonest means to pass legislation, while “politician” encompasses any elected or appointed state official. Additionally, it clarifies “intent to defraud” to encompass actions intending to deceive any person, association, or corporate entity.
Central to the act is the establishment of strict prohibitions against fraudulent legislative conduct. Politicians are explicitly barred from presenting legislation with the intent to defraud, outlining severe penalties for violations.
Penalties for suspected fraudulent behavior during the passage of legislation are stringent. Politicians under suspicion will face probation and temporary relief from their duties during investigations. If found guilty, they could be sentenced to a maximum fine of twenty thousand dollars, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. Moreover, convicted individuals would become ineligible to run for state office, work for the state of Oklahoma, or receive state benefits.
Amendments were introduced to refine the effective date clause, specifying that the act will become effective ninety days after passage and approval, unless the emergency clause is rejected.
The bill’s emergency clause emphasizes the urgency of its implementation, declaring it necessary for the preservation of public peace, health, or safety. It aims to swiftly enforce regulations to prevent fraudulent legislative practices, underlining the pressing need for immediate action against such misconduct.
After questioning, the bill was tabled. Mitchell said, “I believe that the bill was written well except however the bill was not adding something to the short title, in the house on the floor, standing rules it is okay, but the precedence makes the bill dillitory in the senate…Honestly im fine, i understand why they did it and per precedence they have a lot of bills to see today. The bill will come back.”
If passed into law, the Fraudulent Law Act of 2023 would mark a significant stride in ensuring transparency, integrity, and accountability within Oklahoma’s legislative processes. It underscores the state’s commitment to combating dishonest practices within the political arena, signaling a robust stance against legislative fraud.