Legislators respond to Supreme Court request in Hiett case

Legislators Respond to Supreme Court Request in Hiett Case

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 15th) – Reps. Tom Gann, R-Inola, Kevin West, R-Moore, and Rick West, R-Heavener, today issued statements regarding an Oklahoma Supreme Court request for oral arguments in their case against Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett.

"On Monday, the Oklahoma Supreme Court changed its position and took the extraordinary step of asking for oral arguments about our Petition for a Writ of Prohibition against Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett. We filed our case after allegations of sexual misconduct and public drunkenness were published, but Hiett refused to disqualify himself from Oklahoma Corporation Commission cases involving the victims and/or witnesses of his alleged criminal conduct. These utility cases are worth billions of dollars and affect millions of Oklahoma customers of Oklahoma Natural Gas, Oklahoma Gas & Electric, and Public Service Company of Oklahoma.

"We are thrilled and encouraged by this development. The court clearly recognizes the extreme public importance of this matter and the potential for severe injury to Oklahoma ratepayers if Hiett’s tainted participation is allowed to continue to violate Oklahomans' constitutional due process rights. We look forward to making our case to the court on November 12."

In addition, the lawmakers reiterated their earlier public statements on this matter:

• Sept. 5, 2024: Legislators Consider Writ of Prohibition over Concerns about Hiett’s Impartiality
• Sept. 30, 2024: Legislators Respond to Hiett Brief in Prohibition Request

Tom Gann serves District 8 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes parts of Mayes, Rogers and Wagoner counties. Kevin West serves House District 54, which includes parts of Cleveland and Oklahoma counties. Rick West serves House District 3, which includes part of LeFlore County.