Legislative Leaders Applaud Ethics Commission Opinion on Campaign Funds for Security

Ethics Commission votes unanimously to approve opinion 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislative leaders today praised a ruling confirming under certain conditions, elected state officeholders may use campaign funds to cover security-related expenses. 

The approved opinion comes after a draft opinion released recently outlined circumstances which funding is permissible. 

The Ethics Commission’s review follows a letter from legislative leaders, including Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City and House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, requesting clarification on whether campaign funds may legally be spent on preventive security after the tragic shootings of lawmakers in Minnesota.

“We deeply appreciate Director Bruce Boone and the Ethics Commission’s thoughtful work on this important matter,” Pro Tem Paxton said. “Public service should never mean putting your safety at unnecessary risk. This ruling gives elected officials a clear, ethical pathway to address credible threats that arise solely because they hold public office. It’s a commonsense step that will allow us to serve the people of Oklahoma without compromising our safety and security.”

"The Ethics Commission has demonstrated strong leadership in addressing the unfortunate and unique risks of elected office,” Speaker Hilbert said. “Their guidance strikes the right balance between safeguarding public servants and ensuring strict accountability in the use of campaign funds. No candidate or official should fear for their life when serving the public. This decision sends a clear message that we value the safety of those who step forward to serve our state."

The opinion aligns with Oklahoma’s rules with recent federal guidance, including updated Federal Election Commission regulations that permit the use of campaign funds for security measures under similar circumstances.

“Violence should never be part of our democratic process, but what happened in Minnesota this summer reminded us all that public service can come with risk to elected officials and their loved ones," Senator Kirt said. "We appreciate the members of the Ethics Commission for clarifying that this is an appropriate expenditure for the safety of elected officials."

“I am pleased that this opinion from the Oklahoma Ethics Commission supports security and safety measures for elected officials as a valid expense under officeholder expenses,” Representative Munson said. “Tragic events this past year have left many lawmakers fearful for their safety. All public servants should have the support they need in order to best serve their communities. When we are unencumbered by threats made to our personal security, we can ensure a better, more prosperous future for everyone.”