Oklahoma Voters Say Competition Keeps Rates Lower
82% say their legislators should fight to decrease costs, not raise them
Voters continue to show very little support for proposed Oklahoma legislation that would increase incumbent utility control over the state’s electric power grid, according to a recent poll.
The poll found that a supermajority of voters agrees that so-called “Right of First Refusal” (ROFR) legislation, currently being considered once again by the Oklahoma Legislature, has many downsides for consumers.
The legislation, which failed to pass in 2023, would limit competition on who can build transmission lines - the large power lines that carry electricity from the power generating facilities to your local utility provider. ROFR legislation would automatically grant current incumbent electric utilities the right to build any new transmission lines in their service area, instead of allowing a competitive bidding process to take place.
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What Oklahoma Voters Think About Right of First Refusal Utility Legislation
Higher electric rates? No thanks!
Oklahoma voters are concerned about a little-known proposal called “Right of First Refusal” (ROFR) that eliminates cost-saving competition for power line construction, making electricity even pricier.
Oklahoma voters have spoken:
Electric rates are too high, and inflation is hitting hard.
Want to waste more taxpayer money?
ROFR laws block competition, drive up costs, and land states in costly court battles they’re losing. Oklahoma can’t afford this!
Who are they working for?
Legislators supporting ROFR laws are handing more power to big utilities—while we pay the price. Learn how Oklahomans feel about this unfair deal.