Lawmakers looking for leaner government

New state budgeting guidelines and demands for leaner government could lead to consolidation of some of Oklahoma's 176 state agencies. <br><br>Some lesser-known entities, like the Oklahoma Sorghum

Sunday, September 21st 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

New state budgeting guidelines and demands for leaner government could lead to consolidation of some of Oklahoma's 176 state agencies.

Some lesser-known entities, like the Oklahoma Sorghum Commission and the Boll Weevil Eradication Organization, could be eliminated completely.

More than 80 agencies receive direct legislative support. Other agencies -- including the wheat, peanut and sorghum commissions -- get no appropriations. They are funded through taxes on goods produced or professional licenses.

Under zero-based budgeting legislation, a legislative committee will review 20 agencies each year. Agency officials are expected to justify every expense, not just new programs.