Okla. Admin. Code § 795:1-1-9

Current through Vol. 42, No. 4, November 1, 2024

Section 795:1-1-9 - Public policy; powers of commission

It is hereby declared to be the public policy of the State of Oklahoma to protect and foster the health, prosperity, and general welfare of its people by protecting and stabilizing the wheat industry and the economy of the areas producing wheat. In connection therewith and in furtherance thereof, the Commission shall have the power to:

(1) Establish an office in Oklahoma City, in the Capitol, or a Capitol office building.

(2) Formulate the general policies and programs of the State of Oklahoma respecting the discovery, promotion, and development of markets and industries for the utilization of wheat; such policies and programs to be closely coordinated with the State Board ofAgriculture.

(3) Adopt and devise a program of education and publicity.

(4) Cooperate with local, state, national or other organizations, whether public or private, or voluntary or created by state or national law, engaged in work or activities involving the expenditure of monies promoting the use of chemicals beneficial to farming operations, contacting regulatory agencies affecting grain grading, facilitating the marketing of grain and publishing information on marketing and production problems of wheat farming; and to enter into such contracts and agreements with such organizations or agencies or canying on a joint campaign of research, promotion and education. Provided, however, no Commission funds shall be used, directly or indirectly, or as a result of contract or agreement with other persons, or organizations, in supporting or opposing political candidates or political officeholders, and direct lobbying either state or national, except that the Commission may recommend amendments to the rules of the Commission. Provided, that nothing herein shall restrict the powers of the Commission as set forth in this section.

(5) Adopt such rules and regulations as are necessary to promptly and effectively administer the provisions of the rules of the Commission.

(6) Conduct; in addition to the things enumerated, any other program for the utilization, research and market development of wheat grown in the State of Oklahoma.

(7) Call and conduct such meetings and elections as may be necessary in carrying out the provisions of the rules of the Commission.

(8) The actual and reasonable expenses of travel, lodging and subsistence in pursuing and developing markets for Oklahoma wheat and wheat products incurred by the Commission, staff and such persons authorized by the Commission shall be reimbursed to the person incurring such expenses. Expenses of wheat trade officials on wheat trade missions from foreign countries or from other states can be reimbursed to the person previously authorized by the Commission to incur the expense only. Actual, reasonable and necessary travel, lodging, and subsistence expenses incurred on official travel to pursue and develop markets will be allowed. The traveling employee is expected to use discretion and good judgement. Also included will be food and beverage with meals for prospective customers for Oklahoma wheat products; expenses for necessary valet services (laundry, dry cleaning, etc.) on travel exceeding seven days; expenses for renting facilities and for services for holding trade development sessions with either buyers or sellers; expenses for receptions honoring national or international dignitaries; and necessary expenses for car rental, taxis and gratuities, providing they are incurred for the sole purpose of pursuing and developing markets for Oklahoma wheat and wheat products. Such expenses claimed shall, prior to reimbursement, be reviewed by the Commission at each regular meeting and individually approved or disapproved.

(9) Hire or retain legal counsel to represent wheat producers in matters pertaining to transportation problems and other matters which could result in potential substantial loss to wheat producers.

(10) To expend Commission funds for the purchase of awards and plaques used in promotional projects, baking contests and recognition of individuals who have made substantial contributions to the wheat industry. [2:1029]

Okla. Admin. Code § 795:1-1-9