OK Senate Self-Audit Environmental Bill Heads to Governor’s Desk

A controversial environmental measure from the Oklahoma State Senate is headed to Gov. Stitt’s desk for further action after passing through the House of Representatives on Wednesday.

Authored by Sen. Mark Allen of Spiro and sponsored by House Rep. Mark McBride of Moore, Senate Bill 1003 would allow regulated entities to voluntarily conduct self-audits as part of its regulatory compliance program.

Dubbed the Oklahoma Environmental, Health and Safety Audit Privilege Act, Senate Bill 1003 has plenty of fans and skeptics alike. Opponents of the bill expressed concern about transparency and truthful reporting practices. Meanwhile, the bill’s author believes it will allow industries to cut through red tape and create a clear pathway to incentivize businesses that report and correct deficiencies.