Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt recently sparked political debate by criticizing the record number of Democratic-authored bills advancing through the Republican- controlled House of Representatives. On April 9, 2025, Governor Stitt posted a two-word message, 'Wow. Disappointing!', on X, formerly known as Twitter, referencing an article titled 'Record number of Democratic bills advance out of Oklahoma House' This remark drew responses from both Democratic andRepublicanleaders in the House. House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson labeled the governor's comment as 'disappointing' and indicative of poor leadership, emphasizing that bipartisan cooperation should be celebrated, not criticized. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, a Republican, also defended the bipartisan efforts, suggesting that collaboration across party lines is beneficial for the state.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between Governor Stitt and the legislature, particularly regarding bipartisan legislation. While the governor's tweet suggests a preference for party-aligned policymaking, legislative leaders from both parties appear committed to cross-party collaboration. As the legislative session progresses, it remains to be seen how this dynamic will influence future policymaking in Oklahoma.
While not all policies go through the House, some matters can be handled directly by the governor. Governor Stitt signed Executive Order 2025-09, aiming to enhance transparency and fiscal responsibility in state agencies' use of independent contractors.
This directive mandates comprehensive reporting on the conversion of fulltime equivalent positions to contractor roles, addressing concerns about potential cost increases and accountability. Governor Stitt's order requires all state agencies to submit detailed reports to the Office of Management and Enterprise Services by April 15, 2025.
These reports must include, the number of full time employee(FTE)positionsand vacancies as of December 17, 2024, and the current date, a complete itemized list of all instances where agency FTE count has been reduced or where the agency has left a position vacant due to the use of independent contractors orotheroutsidecontracts within the preceding twelve months, the total compensation, inclusive of benefits, for eachFTEpositioneliminated due to or replaced by independent contractors or other outside contracts., the total cost of each contract, inclusive of benefits if applicable, that enabled the reduction in total state agency FTE positions or allowed the positions to remain vacant and a financial analysis determining whether the use of contractors has resulted in net savings or costs to the state.
This initiative follows Executive Order 2024-29, which required full-time state employees to return to in-office work, reinforcing the administration's commitment to accountability and cost-effectiveness. Governor Stitt emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and transparency and called it unacceptable.
'Transforming staff roles into independent contractors that cost taxpayers more is unacceptable. Oklahomans want a smaller government, not a government that hides behind gimmicks,' said Stitt.
The governor's office expressed concerns that some agencies might be converting FTE positions to contractor roles to circumvent budget constraints and avoid transparency. The executive order seeks to ensure that such practices do not lead to increased costs for taxpayers.
Agencies are now under scrutiny to justify their staffing decisions, particularly the shift from FTEs to contractors. The mandated reports will provide a clearer picture of these practices and their financial impact, guiding future policy decisions.
This executive order underscores the administration's focus on efficient government operations and the prudent use of taxpayer funds. By demanding detailed accountability, the state aims to prevent unnecessary expenditures and promote transparency across all agencies.