Rep. Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, right, announced he has initiated an investigation into the Oklahoma State Department of Education through the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency. He said House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, left, approved. (Photo by Barbara Hoberock/Oklahoma Voice)
OKLAHOMA CITY — Amid calls for a probe of state Superintendent Ryan Walters, Oklahoma lawmakers announced a legislative watchdog agency would investigate spending concerns at the state Department of Education, where Walters is chief.
Rep. Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, announced Thursday he directed the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency to investigate. LOFT answers to the Oklahoma Legislature and makes recommendations designed to increase efficiency and ensure programs and services are effective.
Wallace leads the influential House Appropriations and Budget Committee and is the chairperson of LOFT.
He said he initiated the inquiry with approval from House Speaker Charles McCall.
“This isn’t about Superintendent Walters,” Wallace said in a statement. “This is about the transparency of a state agency and getting answers for our constituents.”