Press Release: Concerns Raised Over Delayed Records Requests in Oklahoma Government
OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — Investigative reports by FOX 25 have revealed alarming delays in the response to public records requests from multiple state agencies in Oklahoma, raising questions about transparency in government spending. The ongoing investigations focus on the use of taxpayer money in the state, with records requests dating back to December 2022 still unanswered by agencies such as the Department of Tourism and the Lt. Governor’s Office.
Despite repeated follow-ups, responses from these agencies have indicated insufficient time or resources to address the requests, leading media attorney Leslie Briggs to declare that "Months of delay? That’s effectively a denial." She emphasizes that Oklahoma’s Open Records law mandates a reasonable timeframe for document release, and significant delays violate this law.
Concerns have escalated with allegations that Abegail Cave, the governor’s chief of communications, instructed agency personnel to postpone releasing records due to dissatisfaction with FOX 25’s reporting. When questioned directly, Governor Kevin Stitt expressed unawareness of any such interference, asserting the importance of fulfilling Open Records Requests.
Cave, however, refuted claims of instructing delays, stating she has only directed compliance with the law. Legal experts warn that targeting specific requesters not only breaches state law but may infringe on First Amendment rights, making it a serious issue.
As tensions rise, the governor’s office recently canceled a press briefing where further questions could have been addressed, stating that he will resume public availabilities next week. The pressing need for transparency and accountability in government remains at the forefront of these investigations, with FOX 25 committed to uncovering the truth about taxpayer-funded expenditures.
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