TO SIGN OR NOT TO SIGN

All of us have heard the old expression about reading the fine print in any business transaction. There are laws on the books that are supposed to give protection to the citizens, but ultimately it is our responsibility to look out for ourselves. Government has its place, but it can never completely insulate us from bad decisions. In this country we are blessed with many freedoms and among them is the freedom to make bad decisions. All of us have made bad decisions but in the long run they can make us stronger. Recently a State Legislator announced that he would author legislation concerning the initiative petition process.

State Rep. Jabar Shumate announced he would file legislation to crack down on what he considers to be fraudulent practices that have plagued Oklahoma's initiative petition process. "Too often, the paid signature collectors working in our petition process will say just about anything to get someone to sign his or her name," said Shumate, D-Tulsa. "Several of my constituents have signed a petition only to later learn of the true contents of the ballot question they are 'supporting.' Unfortunately, there's no way for them
to correct their mistake." Representative Shumate was also quoted as saying,
The legislation will also establish guidelines for individuals collecting signatures to ensure they face penalties if they mislead citizens about the content of a ballot proposal.
"Our initiative petition process cannot survive if it lacks integrity.”

I feel that that integrity and truthfulness should apply to his profession as well. How many times have you heard a politician promise anything in order to get elected? Would Rep. Shumate be willing to have penalties for the elected officials who mislead citizens about the content of laws and legislation?

Just last year an initiative petition was thrown out because some of the carriers were from out of sate. Oklahoma has a statute that states petitions can be carried only by Oklahoma residents. As far as I know, any candidate running for political office can hire anyone to work in his or her campaign. They are not required to use firms that are located only in Oklahoma.