Resolution 1039, introduced by Rick West, proposes an amendment to Section 21 of Article V of the Oklahoma Constitution, which aims to establish a Board on Legislative Compensation. This board, composed of members appointed by the Governor, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, will be responsible for determining the compensation of state legislators. Importantly, any recommendations made by the board to change legislative compensation must be approved by a majority vote of the people in a statewide election, ensuring that the public has a direct say in such decisions.
The resolution also outlines provisions for legislators who are incarcerated due to criminal charges, stipulating that they must return any compensation received while incarcerated and will not receive further compensation during their incarceration following a guilty verdict or plea. The proposed amendment includes a ballot title for voters to consider, which summarizes the key aspects of the measure, including the requirement for public approval of any compensation changes. If passed, this resolution will enhance transparency and accountability in the compensation of Oklahoma's legislators.