Senator Guthrie Files Bill to Provide Increased Public Comment Opportunities on Open Meeting Agenda Items

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Brian Guthrie, R-Bixby, filed legislation this week to update the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to require all public bodies to provide a reasonable opportunity for public comment on agenda items before any official action is taken.

“Too often, public matters are discussed and effectively decided without public input,” Guthrie said. “This legislation strikes a balance between transparency and efficiency, ensuring the public has the opportunity, ahead of any action, to express their views on an agenda item and share how potential action on that item may impact their communities, home, or livelihoods.”

Under Senate Bill 1252, public bodies would have the authority to impose time limits or require members of the public to sign up to speak before an agenda item is heard, helping ensure meetings are conducted fairly and efficiently.

Senate Bill 1252 will be eligible for consideration during the 2026 legislative session, which begins February 2.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Brian Guthrie at 405-521-5675 or email Brian.Guthrie@oksenate.gov.