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Oklahoma Senate Bill SJR5
Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session
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Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SJR5

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

Constitutional amendment; increasing percentage of vote required to pass certain measures.

Impact

The impact of SJR5 on state laws lies in its potential to significantly alter the landscape of voter-driven initiatives in Oklahoma. By requiring a higher threshold for approval, the bill could make it considerably more challenging for citizens to enact changes through the initiative process. Proponents argue that this change would ensure that only measures with broad support would pass, thereby promoting stability and careful consideration of proposed laws. However, critics express concerns that such a requirement may disenfranchise voters and limit public input on important issues, making it harder for grassroots movements to effect change.

Summary

SJR5 is a resolution proposing an amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution that increases the percentage of votes required for certain measures to pass. Specifically, it aims to raise the threshold for passing both initiative petitions and constitutional amendments from a simple majority to a supermajority of 60% of the votes cast. This proposed change is significant as it directly affects the democratic process of how laws and amendments are adopted within the state of Oklahoma. The resolution directs the Secretary of State to refer the proposal to the voters for their approval or rejection in the next general election.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SJR5 include the debate over the appropriateness of raising the voting threshold. Supporters argue it would prevent transient or poorly supported measures from being enacted, whereas opponents fear that it consolidates power away from the electorate and could lead to a situation where the will of the people is undermined. Additionally, there are concerns that this change could disproportionately affect certain demographics who may already struggle to participate in the voting process, thus leading to a less representative outcome in future elections.

Companion Bills

OK SJR5

Carry Over Constitutional amendment; increasing percentage of vote required to pass certain measures.

Previously Filed As

OK SJR5

Constitutional amendment; increasing percentage of vote required to pass certain measures.

OK HJR1007

Oklahoma Constitution; amendments to Oklahoma Constitution; passage; voting requirement; ballot title; filing.

OK HJR1013

Oklahoma Constitution; amendments to the Oklahoma Constitution; voter approval requirements; ballot title; filing.

OK SJR10

Constitutional amendment; vote of the people; expanding veteran ad valorem exemption.

OK SJR9

Constitutional amendment; modifying certain appointment procedure; requiring Senate confirmation of certain judicial appointments.

OK SJR12

Constitutional amendment; vote of the people; eliminationg of ad valorem tax; prvoviding ballot title.

OK SJR14

Constitutional amendment; clarifying Pardon and Parole Board voting procedures.

OK SJR15

Constitutional amendment; vote of the people; elimination of property tax; autorization to levy consumption tax.

OK SJR13

Constitutional amendment; removing requirement of political party affiliation for certain membership of the Judicial Nominating Commission.

OK SJR6

Constitutional amendment; Judicial Nominating Commission; requiring Senate confirmation of certain judicial appointments. Ballot title.

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