Oklahoma Constitution Article XVI: PUBLIC ROADS, HIGHWAYS, AND INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS
Oklahoma Constitution – Article XVI: Public Roads, Highways, and Internal Improvements
This article governs how the State of Oklahoma manages, funds, and develops public infrastructure projects, such as roads, highways, and other internal improvements.
🔹 Section 1: Restrictions on State Involvement
The State of Oklahoma is prohibited from:
Engaging in any internal improvement works (such as building roads, bridges, canals, railroads, etc.) on its own.
Becoming a stockholder in any company, association, or corporation that is involved in such internal improvements.
Purpose: This restriction was designed to prevent the state from directly financing or managing large infrastructure projects, especially in ways that could risk public funds or lead to state favoritism or corruption.
🔹 Section 2: Exceptions via Public Authority
Counties, cities, towns, townships, and other municipal corporations can:
Take on internal improvements within their boundaries.
Issue bonds, taxes, or otherwise raise funds with voter approval.
These local entities can cooperate with the state or federal government for public improvement projects, such as:
Roads and highways
Bridges
Drainage systems
Water works, etc.
🔹 Section 3: Road and Highway Funding
Allows for the creation of a State Highway Commission (now the Oklahoma Department of Transportation).
The Legislature is empowered to:
Levy taxes and license fees (e.g., fuel taxes, vehicle registration).
Use those revenues for the construction and maintenance of roads and highways.
Work with federal agencies under federal road laws (e.g., federal highway programs).
🔹 General Purpose of Article XVI:
Ensure that public infrastructure is managed responsibly.
Prevent the misuse of public funds for private gain.
Decentralize control of local projects to local governments while enabling state cooperation.
Promote safe and effective transportation systems across Oklahoma, especially in rural areas.
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