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November 10, 2012

More transparency aheadfor state Senate chamber

The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — There was a time not so long ago when most of the real work at the state legislature was done behind closed doors. An era of transparency was ushered in and the doors were opened. Committee votes were now being recorded.

The technology that allows public access to state Senate and House proceedings is being taken a step further this year. New high resolution cameras have been added to the front and back of the Senate chamber for those wanting to follow the Senate without actually going to 23rd and Lincoln in Oklahoma City.

Additionally new software has been installed to enable bill information and links to the text of measures to appear next to the chamber video. A new voting board will enable the display of more information, including a full short title and a list of upcoming bills to be heard that day.

A new sound board will be tied to the voting board, along with the website and high definition cameras making it possible to archive audio in a more useable format.

Archived, searchable audio of the Senate’s legislative sessions will be available on the website beginning with the 2013 session. 

These latest upgrades, including the digital cameras for the chamber, will be completed in time for the 2013 legislative session. The State Senate’s official website is www.oksenate.gov.

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