In an effort to directly involve its constituents in the oversight of state-funded higher education, Oklahoma Rep. Gabe Woolley has put forth a resolution that could notably shift how funding is allocated. Woolley's House Joint Resolution 1037, as filed, looks to increase accountability by granting the public a say in whether state appropriations can be frozen or suspended at public universities and colleges.
The resolution would let lawmakers temporarily freeze or withhold funding for public colleges, but such actions would require voter approval, giving Oklahomans a direct say in higher education spending.
According to a statement by the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Woolley asserts, "This measure, if passed, would allow the people of Oklahoma to hold our publicly funded universities and colleges accountable. How tax dollars are utilized should always be subject to the will of the people." It is stated that any actions regarding the funding would exclusively apply to the state-appropriated funds, thereby not affecting tuition, fees, or private resources.
Under the amendment, funding restrictions would last up to two years, with the Legislature able to modify or end them sooner. Woolley said the resolution aims to ensure universities use taxpayer dollars responsibly and maintain academic integrity.
The resolution must be approved by both the Oklahoma House and Senate before going to a statewide ballot. Discussion begins February 2 with the start of the 60th Legislature’s second session.
