Rep. Hays: 'A Call for Fairness in Municipal Public Policy'

A Call for Fairness in Municipal Public Policy

By State Representative Neil Hays (R, HD-13)

As communities across the country work to balance budgets, fund essential services, and attract the businesses that drive innovation and job creation, it’s time for local governments to rethink their approach to public policy. As State Representative for District 13, I encourage our elected leaders to adopt transparent, deliberate, and equitable decision-making processes when considering new taxes, fees, or regulations. We must resist hasty or regressive measures that undermine the very economies they seek to support.

The temptation to close budget gaps with quick revenue fixes is understandable.

However, too often these measures come at a steep long-term cost. Targeted policies—such as selective taxes on specific industries— create an uneven playing field that erodes trust and drives businesses to fairer jurisdictions. For instance, imposing fees on one sector while exempting its competitors discourages investment and stifles innovation, ultimately weakening the local economy.

Fairness must be the cornerstone of municipal governance. Neutral, transparent regulations—such as streamlined permitting processes and clear compliance guidelines— reduce barriers and ensure no business is unfairly disadvantaged. Broad-based incentives tied to measurable outcomes like job creation or community investment can spur inclusive economic growth without playing favorites. By avoiding the temptation to pick winners and losers, municipalities can foster an environment where success is determined by merit, not municipal favoritism.

Equitable policy is not just a moral imperative—it’s an economic one. Communities that eliminate arbitrary burdens and favoritism create more resilient, diverse economies better equipped to weather market shifts. Transparent decision-making, coupled with regular reviews of regulatory and fiscal impacts, can help identify and correct policies that stifle competition or disproportionately target certain enterprises. This requires collaboration with business leaders, community stakeholders, and economic experts to ensure policies prioritize fairness and efficiency over short-term fixes.

The stakes are higher than ever. Municipalities that embrace balanced, transparent, and fair public policy will position themselves as attractive destinations for businesses of all kinds. I am committed to working with local leaders to cultivate an environment where innovation flourishes, opportunities abound, and every business has a fair shot at success. Let’s build communities that serve everyone—not just a select few.

Neil Hays represents House District 13 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.