Oklahoma Constitution Article IX: CORPORATIONS
Oklahoma Constitution – Article IX: CORPORATIONS
Article IX of the Oklahoma Constitution establishes the legal framework for regulating corporations, with a particular emphasis on railroads, public service corporations, and the authority of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.
🔹 Key Sections and Provisions:
§1. Corporation Commission Established
Creates the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, consisting of three commissioners, elected for six-year terms.
Commissioners are tasked with regulating transportation and transmission companies and other public service corporations.
§2. Powers of the Corporation Commission
The Commission has regulatory authority over rates, fares, charges, and service quality of public service corporations.
It can investigate and correct abuses, and its decisions have the force of law unless overturned by a court.
§3. Appeals from Commission Decisions
Allows appeals of Commission decisions to the Oklahoma Supreme Court, which has the authority to affirm, reverse, or modify those decisions.
§4. Duty of Railroads and Transportation Companies
Railroads must provide equal service and rates to all without discrimination.
Rebates, free passes (except in certain cases), or other forms of favoritism are prohibited.
§5. Rates Must Be Just and Reasonable
Rates set by corporations must be just and reasonable; the Corporation Commission can fix rates if they are excessive.
§6. Prohibition of Consolidation and Monopolies
Prevents monopolistic practices, especially within transportation and communication companies.
No consolidation between competing lines unless approved by the Corporation Commission.
§7. Inspection and Supervision
The Commission has the right to inspect books, records, and facilities to ensure compliance with regulations.
§13. Public Service Corporations
Expands the definition to include telephone, telegraph, oil pipeline, gas, and electric companies, all under Commission jurisdiction.
§18-34. Corporation Commission Procedures and Jurisdiction
These sections detail the procedural rules for the Commission’s operation and enforcement powers.
🔹 Importance of Article IX:
Ensures government oversight of essential services like electricity, transportation, oil & gas pipelines.
Promotes fair pricing, competition, and public accountability in industries affecting the public welfare.
Establishes the Corporation Commission as a quasi-judicial body, balancing public interests with corporate activity.
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