AGRICULTURE & WATER 

Oklahoma Bill Would Eliminate Permits for Feral Hog Hunting (Grand View Outdoors) — Oklahoma Senator Dusty Deevers has introduced a bill, SB478, to eliminate the requirement for permits to hunt feral hogs, aimed at aiding residents in protecting their property from the invasive species. Feral hogs cause significant damage in Oklahoma, estimated at $30 million to $50 million annually, affecting crops, ecosystems, and water quality. The bill, described as a measure to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and aid in the direct management of these animals, would remove multiple agency permits currently needed for their control.

Oklahoma House Advances Truth in Food Labeling Bill to Governor (Oklahoma House of Representatives) – The Oklahoma House has passed House Bill 1126, aiming to ensure accurate labeling of food products derived from plant or insect proteins, preventing them from being misrepresented as meat. Authored by Rep. Jim Grego (R-Wilburton) and Sen. Roland Pederson (R-Burlington), the bill mandates that such products be clearly labeled to inform consumers about their contents. Grego emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, "People should know where their food comes from," highlighting the need for consumers to be aware if their food originates from insect proteins, plant products, or lab-grown sources. The legislation places the burden of proof on manufacturers rather than retailers and assigns the Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry the responsibility of investigating credible complaints regarding mislabeling. Violations of this act would constitute a misdemeanor offense. Having passed both legislative chambers with significant support, the bill now awaits Governor Kevin Stitt's consideration. 

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Commerce Enhances Workforce Pipeline with First-Ever Public-Private Partnership Education and Workforce Development Incentive (Oklahoma Department of Commerce (.gov)) — The Oklahoma Department of Commerce has introduced a new Public-Private Partnership (P3) initiative with Northern Oklahoma College (NOC) in Enid to develop a state-of-the-art Athletic Training and Education Center. The project involves a $1.5 million investment from NOC and a $675,000 P3 award from Commerce, aiming to enhance Oklahoma’s workforce in athletic training and sports medicine. Expected to be completed in 2026, this facility will increase enrollment capacity and provide advanced training opportunities, benefitting Enid Public Schools and local hospitals.

EDUCATION 

House fights over corporal punishment of Oklahoma disabled children, sends ban to governor (Oklahoma Voice) — Oklahoma House lawmakers recently debated and passed Senate Bill 364, which prohibits school personnel from physically disciplining students with federally recognized disabilities. The legislation, now awaiting the governor's signature, targets physical actions like hitting and spanking, which were previously allowed except in cases of severe cognitive disabilities. Representative Anthony Moore, the bill's author, emphasized the inappropriateness of such punishments for disabled children, citing incidents in Oklahoma schools. The bill's opposition critiqued it for overly broadening the protected categories and undermining parental and local authority.

New academic standards set to pass after lack of vote from Oklahoma Legislature (Oklahoma Voice) — New academic standards for social studies and science are set to be implemented in Oklahoma after the state Legislature failed to vote on resolutions that would have rejected them. Lawmakers missed the deadline to act on these standards, allowing them to pass as planned. State Superintendent Ryan Walters, who supervised the development of these standards, described them as highly conservative and pro-America. Despite some GOP efforts to reject the measures due to procedural concerns and a lack of transparency in their adoption, there was not enough support to prevent their implementation.

Oklahoma House rejects plan to add extra instructional day for every $25 million in new funding (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma House recently voted against a legislative proposal, Senate Bill 409, which would have mandated adding an additional instructional day to the school calendar for every $25 million increase in funding allocated to common education. Proponents of the bill argued it would enhance student outcomes through more classroom time and provide tangible results for legislative investment. However, opponents questioned the efficacy and financial prudence of this measure, citing concerns over the utility of just one extra day in improving academic performance amidst rising educational costs and other fiscal pressures.

House sends bill curtailing virtual school day use to Oklahoma governor (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma State House has passed Senate Bill 758, which limits public schools to only two virtual instruction days per year, effective from the 2026-27 school year. This measure, proposed by State Rep. Anthony Moore, aims to ensure more in-person classroom time and address the state's low academic rankings by restricting the use of virtual days that are not counted as instructional time, except under specific circumstances such as state emergencies. The bill, having faced bipartisan opposition, now moves to the governor's desk for approval.

More Oklahoma communities are embracing Bible classes during public school hours (The Oklahoman) — Several Oklahoma communities are integrating off-campus "release time" Bible classes during public school hours through LifeWise Academy. This program, legal in Oklahoma, allows public school students to receive religious education as part of their day. LifeWise Academy's introduction in Oklahoma began with locations at South Coffeyville and Tahlequah, and additional programs are set to start in Edmond and Altus. Communities like Enid and Tulsa are also showing interest. LifeWise provides a structured process for community initiation, requiring local funding from businesses and support from multiple church congregations to ensure a diverse backing.

‘Personal Grudge’: Sen. Lisa Standridge Blocking Michael Tinney Appointment to State Board of Education (NonDoc) Oklahoma State Senator Lisa Standridge (R-Norman) is obstructing the confirmation of Michael Tinney to the State Board of Education, citing dissatisfaction with Governor Kevin Stitt's removal of her friend Kendra Wesson from the board. Although Standridge initially agreed to sponsor Tinney's nomination, she later withdrew her support, invoking a Senate tradition that allows a nominee's local senator to carry their appointment. Tinney, an attorney from Norman, expressed frustration, noting that Standridge acknowledged his qualifications but opposed his appointment due to loyalty to Wesson. Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton declined to override Standridge's decision, emphasizing the customary process. Without a sponsoring senator, Tinney's appointment cannot proceed, potentially leaving the board seat vacant. This impasse highlights the influence of personal relationships and traditions in legislative confirmations.

Governor appoints retired Edmond teacher to Oklahoma State Board of Education (Oklahoma Voice) — Governor Kevin Stitt has nominated Becky Carson, a retired special education teacher from Edmond, to fill a long-vacant seat on the Oklahoma State Board of Education. Representing Congressional District 5, Carson's term would last until 2027, pending confirmation by the Senate. Notably, Carson brings decades of educational experience from serving mildly disabled students in grades three through five. This appointment follows a previous unsuccessful nomination by Stitt, highlighting the critical nature of Senate support in confirming state board members.

‘A real good test for the First Amendment’ comes to the Supreme Court (Oklahoma Watch) — The Supreme Court is hearing the Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board v. Drummond case, centering on whether St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School can receive public funding. This case, originated in Oklahoma, has garnered significant attention from state lawmakers and could influence the extent to which public funds may be used in religious education, implicating First Amendment considerations. It's closely followed by constituents and legislators alike, reflecting divergent views on the relationship between state entities and religious institutions.

How Oklahoma leaders at Supreme Court hearing on religious charter school responded to arguments (The Oklahoman) — At the Supreme Court hearing concerning the proposed St. Isidore school in Oklahoma, which would be the nation’s first religious charter school, justices considered arguments on both sides. Supporters argued for the school, emphasizing parental rights and educational choices, while opponents raised concerns about the separation of church and state. Oklahoma leaders displayed varied responses, reflecting broader national debates on the role of religion in publicly funded education. The court’s decision will have significant implications for the future of educational policy in Oklahoma and potentially across the United States.

Oklahoma Teachers Could Get More Time Off After Childbirth (Oklahoma Voice) The Oklahoma Senate has passed House Bill 1601, permitting teachers to use up to six weeks of accrued sick leave to extend their existing six-week maternity leave. This measure allows for a total of 12 weeks of leave for recovery and bonding with a newborn, without requiring approval from school boards or employers. Senator Mark Mann (D-Oklahoma City), the bill's author, emphasized that this initiative incurs no additional cost to the state and aims to support teacher recruitment and retention.He noted that while the current budget constraints prevent offering 12 weeks of paid leave outright, this step aligns with practices in the private sector and addresses the needs of new mothers. The bill passed the Senate with a 39-5 vote and now awaits Governor Kevin Stitt's decision.

House Sends Mandatory ‘Bell-to-Bell’ Cellphone Ban Bill to Oklahoma Governor (Oklahoma Voice) Oklahoma lawmakers have advanced Senate Bill 139, mandating all public school districts to enforce a “bell-to-bell” ban on student use of cellphones and personal electronic devices—including smartwatches, tablets, and smart glasses—for the 2025–26 academic year. The measure, which passed the House by a single vote, now awaits Governor Kevin Stitt’s decision. The legislation requires a one-year trial period, after which districts may opt out if they determine the policy is ineffective.Rep. Chad Caldwell (R-Enid), the bill’s author, described the approach as a “try it before you buy it” policy, emphasizing that while the initial year is mandatory, future implementation remains at the discretion of local school boards. Rep. Danny Williams (R-Seminole) expressed concerns over the temporary loss of local control, though Caldwell argued the bill balances statewide standards with district-level flexibility. If signed, the law would take effect in July, aiming to reduce classroom distractions and improve educational outcomes.

House Passes Deevers-Hasenbeck Bill to Establish High Dosage Tutoring, Incentive Bonuses for Teachers (Oklahoma Senate) Oklahoma lawmakers have advanced Senate Bill 245, a bipartisan initiative aimed at improving academic outcomes through high-dosage tutoring and performance-based teacher bonuses. Authored by Senator Dusty Deevers and Representative Toni Hasenbeck, both Republicans from Elgin, the bill establishes a statewide program providing small-group instruction to help students close learning gaps. Participating teachers can earn $1,600 per semester per student group, plus $1,000 for each student who advances a full grade level, with potential annual bonuses up to $8,200. The legislation also amends teacher stipend tiers to ensure fairness across the state and stipulates that these bonuses will not count against retirement benefits. Deevers emphasized the program's role in delivering real academic growth, while Hasenbeck highlighted its importance in supporting educators and students, particularly in underserved communities. Having passed both chambers, SB245 now awaits the Governor's approval.

ELECTIONS

Walters to Pay $18,300 to Settle with Oklahoma Ethics Commission (Oklahoma Voice) Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters has agreed to pay $18,300 to resolve a campaign finance violation involving an improper transfer of funds from his campaign to a local school board race. The payment included a $2,100 contribution to the “Cross for Jenks” committee, which supported Ashley Cross, a candidate who campaigned against “oversexualization” in schools during her 2022 bid. Cross ultimately lost to incumbent Terry Keeling. Under the settlement, Walters must pay the full amount by the end of September, with an initial $5,000 installment due May 30. This marks Walters’ second ethics settlement in recent months; in March, he paid $5,000 after the Ethics Commission found he used his official social media account to advocate for Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign, violating state ethics rules. Separately, the commission dismissed a complaint filed by Rep. Ellyn Pogemiller (D-Oklahoma City), which alleged Walters improperly endorsed an alternative teachers’ organization using state resources.

ENERGY

Oklahoma’s utility regulator criticizes proposed state energy legislation (KGOU) — The Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) has expressed opposition to proposed state legislation, House Bill 2747 and Senate Bill 998, which mandate special rates for companies constructing natural gas facilities. The regulators argue that this requires consumers to shoulder the costs of projects in advance, risking public money before operational benefits are realized. The OCC is concerned that the bills would undermine their authority and improperly promote natural gas over other energy sources, setting a contentious precedent for energy policy in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma wants to keep Osage County windfarm up despite order to dismantle (KOSU) — The State of Oklahoma is advocating to keep an Osage County wind farm operational, despite a previous court order mandating its dismantle. The state argues that the removal of the turbines, installed by Enel, would cause significant economic impact, losing potential tax revenue and affecting surface owners' rights. Enel was initially required to dismantle the turbines after illegally extracting and using minerals from Osage Nation land, which also led to significant legal fees and damages owed by the company.

HEALTH CARE

Persistent budget gaps in Oklahoma's mental health agency exposed by legislative review (KOSU) — An independent legislative review revealed significant financial mismanagement within the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Regina Birchum, Director of the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency, reported numerous issues, including a lack of clarity in spending and budgeting discrepancies to a House select committee. The investigation highlights inconsistencies in reporting budget shortfalls, with a remaining unexplained $27.4 million. The department is requesting $6.2 million to maintain operations until July, urging a comprehensive reassessment of its financial practices and budget formulation.

Oklahoma Mental Health Department Reverses Payroll Crisis Statement (KOSU) Oklahoma’s Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) initially informed legislators it could not meet its May payroll, citing a $23 million shortfall. The agency first projected a May 7 default, later extending it to May 21, before ultimately retracting the claim without clarifying how funds were secured. This financial turmoil follows the revelation of a $63.7 million deficit in March, prompting multiple investigations and legislative hearings. Attorney General Gentner Drummond labeled the situation “government malpractice” and called for Commissioner Allie Friesen’s dismissal. Governor Kevin Stitt defended Friesen, attributing the crisis to longstanding mismanagement predating her tenure. He announced plans to appoint an independent financial expert to oversee the department’s finances and initiate a comprehensive review of its operations. Lawmakers, expressing frustration over the agency’s inconsistent financial disclosures, are considering an emergency appropriation to ensure continuity of critical mental health services.

Oklahoma AG Calls for Mental Health Commissioner’s Firing Amid Financial Meltdown (Oklahoma Voice)Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has called on Governor Kevin Stitt to remove Allie Friesen, Commissioner of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, citing a “financial meltdown” at the agency. The department disclosed it may be unable to meet payroll by May 21, facing a reported $43 million budget shortfall. Drummond criticized Friesen’s leadership as “incompetent” and warned of a collapse in critical mental health services. Stitt, who appointed Friesen in 2024, defended her and blamed the situation on inherited financial mismanagement. He announced several measures in response, including a special investigation, a review of all Medicaid and federally funded functions, and the appointment of an independent financial expert. Meanwhile, lawmakers are weighing an emergency appropriation to cover the shortfall, though some question whether the $6.2 million request is sufficient to keep the agency solvent through the end of the fiscal year.

Governor Stitt Announces Actions to Address ODMHSAS Financial Crisis (Oklahoma.gov) Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has outlined immediate measures to stabilize the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) amid revelations of financial and operational mismanagement. In a letter to legislative leaders, Stitt emphasized that the current issues stem from years of mismanagement and reaffirmed his support for Commissioner Allie Friesen, whom he tasked with increasing agency transparency. The Governor's plan includes appointing an independent financial expert to temporarily oversee the department's finances and develop a credible supplemental budget request. Additionally, a seasoned attorney will be named to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the agency's operations, reporting directly to the Governor's Office. Lastly, Stitt has directed the Oklahoma Healthcare Authority CEO, Ellen Buettner, alongside ODMHSAS officials, to perform a thorough review of all Medicaid and federally funded functions within the agency to determine if these responsibilities should be restructured for improved accountability and efficiency.

Lawmakers Halt Donahue Mental Health Hospital Project, Shift to New OKC Site (Oklahoma Voice) Oklahoma legislators have preliminarily approved abandoning the Donahue Behavioral Health Campus project near Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City due to significant cost overruns and delays. Initially budgeted at $137 million with an anticipated opening in December 2025, the project now faces a $125 million funding gap and a delayed opening until 2028. Instead, officials propose allocating $19.1 million to purchase land and $31.5 million to renovate two existing buildings in central Oklahoma City, creating a 197-bed facility—fewer than the 330 beds planned for Donahue. The new design will focus less on pediatric care but aims to accommodate criminal defendants requiring competency restoration services, adding 32 beds to meet a recent lawsuit settlement. The exact location remains undisclosed. Interim CFO Skip Leonard reported $6.45 million already spent on Donahue, though discrepancies in expenditure figures persist. The revised plan awaits final approval from the Joint Committee on Pandemic Relief Funding.

What to know | SoonerSelect enrollment open until June 13 (KJRH) — Oklahomans have until June 13, 2025, to enroll or change their health and dental plans through SoonerSelect, a program administered by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. Enrollees can manage their plans via the MySoonerCare.org portal or by contacting the SoonerCare helpline. SoonerSelect offers health plans from Aetna Better Health of Oklahoma, Humana Healthy Horizons in Oklahoma, and Oklahoma Complete Health, along with dental options through DentaQuest and Liberty Dental Plan. Additional details and resources are available on the OHCA SoonerSelect website.

HUMAN SERVICES

Oklahoma kids in need can get $120 for groceries this summer — but only on tribal lands (The Oklahoman) — For the second consecutive year, Oklahoma has opted out of the federal Summer EBT program, which provides $120 per eligible child for groceries during summer break. While the state refrains, several Oklahoma tribes will implement the program on tribal lands. Governor Kevin Stitt attributes Oklahoma's refusal to participate to the state's capability to manage without federal aid and the recent elimination of grocery sales tax. Concurrently, while the state has parallel food programs, Oklahoma remains one of the top states struggling with food security among children.

STATE GOVERNMENT

Legislation modernizing Oklahoma state railroad asset sales head to governor for signature (Transportation Today) — Oklahoma legislation, Senate Bill 341, aimed at modernizing the sale of state-owned railroad assets, is on its way to Governor Kevin Stitt for approval. Sponsored by state Rep. Dell Kerbs, the bill mandates the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to initiate a Request for Proposal process, giving interested parties 120 days to submit proposals. The bill enforces a transparent sales process to facilitate private-sector participation and potential development, ensuring an economic impact study is included in the decision-making. The Oklahoma Transportation Commission must approve all sales, according to the bill, which passed in the House 81-8.

Oklahoma bill targets English proficiency, non-domiciled CDLs (Land Line Media) — An Oklahoma bill originally meant to regulate utility vehicles has been transformed to focus on English proficiency and restrictions on non-domiciled commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). The Oklahoma Senate initially passed the bill concerning low-speed utility vehicles on state roads, but after reaching the House, it was revised entirely. The new focus mandates English proficiency for CDL holders and invalidates non-domiciled CDLs issued by other states for use in Oklahoma. Additionally, the bill seeks to disallow truck drivers with B-1 or B-2 visas from operating within the state, proposing significant fines for violations. This change aligns with actions in neighboring Arkansas and is part of a broader regional shift towards enforcing such standards, though it faces potential hurdles concerning interstate CDL agreements and visa regulations.

Public Obscenity Bill That Could Impact Drag Shows Heads to Oklahoma Governor (Oklahoma Voice) The Oklahoma Senate has passed House Bill 1217, which criminalizes "adult performances" deemed obscene on public property or in areas accessible to minors, imposing penalties of up to $1,000 in fines or one year in jail. While the bill does not explicitly mention drag shows, critics argue it targets the LGBTQ+ community and infringes on free speech. Sen. Carri Hicks (D-Oklahoma City) labeled it an "anti-speech, anti-queer, anti-art bill," asserting that its true aim is to suppress drag performances. Sen. David Bullard (R-Durant), the bill's author, contends the legislation addresses obscene behavior irrespective of attire. Opponents, including Sen. Mark Mann (D-Oklahoma City), warn that the bill's broad language could inadvertently ban theatrical and cultural performances. The measure passed with a 39-8 vote and awaits Governor Kevin Stitt's decision.

Oklahoma Legislature Passes Biotechnology Protection Bill to Safeguard State Research Assets (Oklahoma House of Representatives) The Oklahoma House has approved Senate Bill 552, a measure aimed at protecting the state's bioscience and research infrastructure from exploitation by foreign adversaries. Authored by Rep. Collin Duel (R-Guthrie) and Sen. Kelly Hines (R-Oklahoma City), the bill prohibits state agencies receiving federal or state funds from contracting with biotechnology companies designated by the U.S. government as being of concern due to associations with hostile foreign governments. This restriction also extends to companies subcontracting with such entities. Duel emphasized the necessity of the legislation, stating, "We cannot allow Oklahoma’s institutions to be vulnerable to such risks." Hines highlighted the bill's role in safeguarding national security and the integrity of Oklahoma's innovation sector. Both lawmakers clarified that the bill targets a narrow category of foreign-government-affiliated companies and is not intended to hinder collaborations with reputable international researchers. The legislation now awaits Governor Kevin Stitt's consideration.