Fallin Order Expands AG’s Power Over Regulatory Boards
OK governor’s order gives attorney general new power
by Randy Ellis
Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin has issued an executive order granting the state attorney general’s office expanded authority over proposed actions of numerous state regulatory boards.
Board members who reject the attorney general’s advice will be subject to removal for misconduct.
The executive order was issued Friday in an effort to stave off potential antitrust lawsuits.
Under the new order, state boards that consist predominantly of members of the professions they regulate are required to submit “all proposed licensure or prohibition actions” to the attorney general for review and written analysis regarding potential legal violations.
“Upon receipt of the written analysis provided by the Office of the Attorney General, the board shall defer to any recommended modification, including rescinding the proposed action,” the executive order states. “Failure to follow the written analysis provided by the Office of Attorney General shall constitute misconduct and shall subject such board member(s) to removal for cause by the appointing authority.”