Governor Stitt Issues Order Directing Agencies to Begin Simplifying Processes for Securing State-Issued Licenses

Today, Governor Kevin Stitt signed an executive order designed to eliminate barriers to professional opportunities, make it easier for Oklahomans to obtain state-issued professional licenses. The order also creates the Efficiency in Licensing Task Force. 

"If we can empower our workforce and axe unnecessary regulations, everyone wins. We just want to remove barriers and simplify the state's licensing process, which is better for job seekers and businesses in Oklahoma," said Governor Stitt. "Oklahoma is already creating jobs and opening doors to career opportunities like never before; this executive order bolsters that work and will make it easier for skilled Oklahomans to join our workforce.”

The executive order mandates each state agency compile a digital catalog of the licenses it offers, including the cost of fees and a justification for the license. Once the catalogs are submitted, the Efficiency in Licensing Task Force will be established to evaluate the data and make recommendations to:

• Simplify the licensing process, including the potential consolidation of state agencies, boards, and commissions 
• Eliminate bureaucratic obstacles. 
• Lower the cost of securing state-issued licenses.

The Task Force will submit a report of its finding and recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature by December 31, 2024. Members of the Task Force will be comprised of key state officials and appointees from the Senate and House of Representatives. 

Executive Order 2024-14 can be read in full here.