On Monday, June 17, 2024, Governor Kevin Stitt issued an executive order aimed at eliminating barriers to economic development, cutting red tape that hinders job creation, and expanding career opportunities across Oklahoma.

"Nobody wants to hassle with the state to get a permit approved, it's bad for business," said Governor Stitt. "If we can cut red tape and get government out of the way, it's going to help make Oklahoma the most business-friendly state in the nation. My executive order will incentivize our agencies to quickly approve permits and make it easier for Oklahomans to move through the state’s processes."

The order mandates state agencies improve efficiency in the processing and approval of state-issued permits to facilitate a more business-friendly environment by enacting the following provisions:

• Cataloging Permits: Each state agency must compile a digital catalog of the different types of permits they issue and submit the list to OMES within 90 days. 
• Review and Recommendations: OMES, in conjunction with the Governor's Office, cabinet secretaries and chief advisors, and the State Chief Transformation and Information Officers, will review and establish efficient processing times for permits and publish an electronic catalog of recommended application processing times. 
• Compliance and Refunds: If state agencies fail to comply with the recommended processing times, they will be required to refund the application fee in full unless there’s explicit law to the contrary.

Executive Order 2024-13 can be read in full here.