Oklahoman: Ethics Rules Revisions Likely To Encourage More Transparency

Ethics rules revisions seem likely to encourage more transparent political donations in Oklahoma

The Oklahoman Editorial

THE Oklahoma Ethics Commission is conducting a long-overdue review of its rules and regulations. Some critics have attacked the resulting proposals, claiming that they would increase the power of special interests. These claims are more hype than substance.

Among the rule changes commission members will consider on Dec. 13 is one changing the current “per family per campaign” and “per family per year” contribution limits to political parties and political action committees (PACs). The proposed rules would instead apply contribution limits on a “per person” basis.

Under current regulations, an unmarried couple could give more money to a political cause than a comparable married couple. This obviously raises constitutional concerns. Conservatives rightfully oppose a “marriage penalty” in the tax code. They should oppose a marriage penalty for those engaged in First Amendment activities as well.

A proposed Ethics Commission rule would allow a maximum contribution of $2,600 per person, per election, to candidates. The limit would automatically increase with inflation, mirroring federal law. This is not unreasonable. Failure to adjust contribution limits for inflation ultimately benefits entrenched incumbents at the expense of challengers, which serves no public purpose.

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