Oklahoma lawmakers should be allowed to use campaign funds to cover reasonable home and digital security costs, according to a draft opinion from the Oklahoma Ethics Commission. 

A bipartisan group of legislative leaders requested the opinion following the June 14 assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Minnesota resident Vance Boutler is also accused of shooting and seriously wounding Minnesota Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. 

The draft opinion does not apply to candidates for public office, only elected officials. It also stipulates that “the safety and security expenses would not be incurred if the individual did not hold the elected office.” 

“Some examples of reasonable expenses for safety and security might include a security camera system, motion detectors, cybersecurity software, and monitoring services,” the opinion reads. “Expenses for safety and security outside the scope of what is reasonable under the Ethics Rules include hiring a security guard or security detail, purchasing weapons, or installing complex, high-end equipment.” 

The public hearing on the draft opinion is scheduled for Thursday, August 14 at 11 a.m at the State Capitol. Members of the public are welcome to submit written feedback or speak in-person at the hearing.

As always, you can reach me at Kross@Oklahomawatch.org with story ideas, comments or other feedback.

— Keaton Ross

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