Oklahoma Constitution Article XXV: SOCIAL SECURITY
Oklahoma Constitution – Article XXV: Social Security
Overview:
Article XXV of the Oklahoma Constitution provides the constitutional authority for the state to cooperate with the federal government in administering Social Security and public welfare programs. This article was adopted to ensure that Oklahomans could fully participate in the federal Social Security system and related benefits.
🔹 Key Provision of Article XXV:
Section 1: Authorization to Cooperate with Federal Government
The Legislature is authorized to:
Enact laws to provide for old age assistance, unemployment compensation, and other forms of public welfare and social security.
Accept and administer federal funds for such purposes.
Cooperate fully with the United States government in implementing federal social security laws.
Section 2: Establishment of a State Agency
Authorizes the creation of a State Department of Public Welfare (now known as the Oklahoma Department of Human Services).
This department is responsible for:
Administering welfare programs
Overseeing the implementation of social security benefits at the state level
Coordinating with federal agencies like the Social Security Administration
Section 3: Protection of Funds
Money appropriated or received for social security purposes is to be used exclusively for that purpose.
Ensures transparency and accountability in the use of public welfare funds.
✅ Summary:
Article XXV was added to the Oklahoma Constitution to allow the state to participate in federal social security and welfare programs. It gives the Legislature authority to pass related laws and create state agencies to administer them, ensuring Oklahoma citizens have access to federal benefits and protections.
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