Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s office will again partner with the Oklahoma Press Association to host free seminars on the state’s open meeting and open records laws, beginning October 27. 

Drummond has made openness and transparency in government among his top priorities in office.

“We must ensure that Oklahoma’s public officials are acting openly with honesty and integrity,” he said. “I am thankful for the hardworking individuals in my office who are also dedicated to these principles and I am pleased to offer this seminar series statewide for every type of public official.” 

Deputy General Counsel Thomas R. Schneider will present the seminars.

“Aside from the ballot box, these two invaluable acts serve as the most potent insurance for citizens to hold government accountable,” Schneider said. “At the same time, this training provides an opportunity for public body members to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of these acts and their important role in safeguarding democracy and preserving integrity in government at all levels.”

Schneider will answer questions concerning the state’s open meeting and records laws and discuss elected or appointed officials’ responsibility under the acts. He also will discuss requirements regarding access to public records and the conduct of public meetings.

Seminars will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at these locations:

• November 3—Norman, Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave.
• November 17—Stillwater, Meridian Technology Center, 1312 S. Sangre Rd.
• December 15—Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Judicial Center, 2100 N. Lincoln Blvd.

The seminars are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required due to overwhelming demand. Please visit okpress.com/seminars to save your seat.

Continuing education credits are available for attendance. Attorneys will receive three CLE credit hours.

New school board members can get three credit hours from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, and new technology center board members can earn three credit hours from the State Department of Career and Technology Education.

Law enforcement officials are eligible to receive three credit hours from the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training.

For more information and to register, visit www.okpress.com/seminars or call OPA at 1-888-815-2672.