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Legislative Headlines

August 16, 2025

AGRICULTURE & WATER 

Oklahoma Farm Bureau members discuss water issues during Working Group Meeting (Farm Talk) — The Oklahoma Farm Bureau Water Working Group convened on July 15 in Oklahoma City for its third meeting to address state and regional water rights issues. OKFB members from across Oklahoma discussed legislative efforts, regulatory frameworks, and inter-state comparisons with insights from Kansas and Texas representatives. Key discussions included the Terry Peach Watershed Restoration Program and the Red Cedar fire management plan. The meeting emphasized the importance of collaborative approaches to water management amid changing regulations and policy needs.

 

State agency limits water use permit for McCurtain County chicken farm (Southwest Ledger) — The Oklahoma Water Resources Board has restricted the water use permit for a new poultry farm in McCurtain County amid concerns about the impact on local water sources, including strain on the aquifer and pollution issues stemming from multiple existing chicken operations. The planned poultry farm, aiming to host millions of gallons of groundwater to support industrial-scale chicken houses, faced objections from local residents concerned about water quality and road damage due to increased traffic from the farms. Despite opposition, state law favors landowner rights to extract groundwater.

 

Poultry companies argue they should not have to pay Oklahoma for water pollution (KOSU) — Oklahoma continues its legal battle with several Arkansas-based poultry companies over pollution in the Illinois River Watershed. The state argues these companies should be financially responsible for addressing the environmental damage caused by waste from their operations, which has affected water quality in the region. These ongoing disputes highlight the broader issue of cross-state environmental impact and the responsibility of agricultural businesses to manage their waste sustainably.

 

Growing Oklahoma: Investing in water conservation (KOKH) — In Oklahoma, initiatives to advance water conservation through urban irrigation programs are gaining momentum. Key figures in this effort, Andrew Fleet and Luke Reynolds, discussed the significant role of the Irrigation Association in promoting such initiatives. They highlighted how strategic investments in water-saving techniques are crucial for the state's sustainability, particularly in urban setups. Local residents of Oklahoma can engage with these programs or seek further information through various provided contacts and resources.

 

 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE & THE COURTS

'Something has to change': Explaining Oklahoma's competency restoration process (KOSU) — Ryan Sullivan, a public defender in Oklahoma County, has highlighted significant delays in the competency restoration process for defendants deemed incompetent to stand trial. This issue affects around 20 people daily in the county jail, waiting for necessary mental health and educational services to understand and participate in their trials. Despite capacity expansions at the Oklahoma Forensic Center, the state struggles with long wait times, as evidenced by ongoing litigation and consent decrees demanding improvements. This critical bottleneck not only slows the legal process but also keeps defendants in prolonged detention without resolution.

 

 

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Amid Trump admin changes, Oklahoma Broadband Office prepares for next stage of development (NonDoc Media) — Amid significant shifts in federal broadband policies, the Oklahoma Broadband Office is pushing forward with major plans to enhance rural internet access under the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program. Oklahoma received over $797 million in preliminary BEAD funding to provide high-speed internet to areas without adequate service. However, recent changes in Federal guidelines have altered funding requirements and the prioritization of technology types, thus complicating the initiatives’ rollout. Key revisions include promoting technological neutrality, effectively allowing for a broader use of various types of broadband technologies including low-Earth-orbit satellites and fixed wireless solutions. The Broadband Office now faces tightened deadlines to finalize project contracts under this new framework, aiming to effectively utilize the hefty federal investment to eliminate the digital divide statewide.

 

Tremendous growth: These Oklahoma communities are ready to welcome the film industry (The Oklahoman) — Amid significant growth in Oklahoma's film industry, 39 communities and one tribe have now completed the Oklahoma Film Friendly Community Program. This state-run program, established by the Oklahoma Film and Music Office in 2021, equips communities with the certifications and resources needed to attract and manage film and television productions effectively. This initiative, backed by a dramatic increase in the state's film rebate cap, aims to boost local economies through increased job creation, cultural enrichment, and higher economic impact from incoming projects. Noteworthy productions in Oklahoma include the acclaimed films and series "Twisters," "Reservation Dogs," "Tulsa King," and "Killers of the Flower Moon."

 

Man who funded Vinita theme park concept sues developers, claiming fraud (KOSU) — A major investor has filed a lawsuit against the developers of the proposed American Heartland Theme Park in Vinita, Oklahoma, alleging they defrauded him of millions of dollars. The theme park, which has been marked by uncertainty, was pitched as a significant attraction for the area but has faced numerous issues during its development phase. The investor’s claims raise questions about the project's viability and the transparency of its developmental processes.

 

 

EDUCATION 

Ryan Walters proposes pulling Oklahoma's testing requirement, department asking for federal approval (KOSU) — State Superintendent Ryan Walters has announced a shift in Oklahoma's approach to student assessments, proposing to replace the state-mandated end-of-year tests in math and English with alternate approved benchmark assessments. This proposal is pending a federal waiver and is subject to a public comment period through September 8, with the U.S. Department of Education required to respond within 120 days. The push for this change has sparked confusion and controversy as it conflicts with current state and federal laws mandating these assessments. Criticism has also arisen due to past controversies involving test scoring adjustments and other policy proposals by Walters with questionable legal backing. As schools begin their academic year, the legal and procedural clarifications regarding this testing policy shift remain pending.

 

Ryan Walters wants to end Oklahoma statewide standardized tests. Can he do that? (The Oklahoman) — Oklahoma State Secretary of Education, Ryan Walters, has expressed his desire to abolish statewide standardized tests, arguing that educational outcomes should not be influenced by bureaucrats or external organizations. While Walters emphasizes that this move could potentially refocus educational strategies and assessments, it raises questions about the state's adherence to federal requirements and the implications for student performance metrics and teacher evaluations in Oklahoma.

 

Public comment closes for proposed ‘teacher effectiveness’ metric on Oklahoma A-F Report Card (KGOU) — Oklahoma is considering a new "teacher effectiveness" metric to replace chronic absenteeism on the A-F Report Card, influenced by the presence of certified teachers and teachers with three years of experience, among other factors. Legislators express concerns this metric could unfairly penalize schools, particularly during ongoing teacher shortages. Public comments on this proposal ended Friday. Critics argue the proposed metrics could create pressure on administrators to inflate teacher evaluations. The State Board of Education is expected to review these comments and potentially adjust the measure.

 

Oklahoma education ranks 50th in nation, State Supt. Walters pushes for swift improvements (KOKH) — Oklahoma ranks 50th in a recent WalletHub study of U.S. educational systems, prompting State Superintendent Ryan Walters to advocate for immediate and significant improvements. In an interview, Walters criticized past educational management styles and teacher unions for negatively influencing the state's school rankings. He emphasized new initiatives such as high-dosage tutoring, merit pay for teachers, and evidence-based summer learning programs aimed at rapidly improving student performance. Walters expressed confidence in noticeable advancements this academic year, especially with focused tracking on reading and math achievements in major school districts.

 

Oklahoma House speaker says ‘bizarre accident’ likely caused explicit images on Walters’ TV (Oklahoma Voice) — Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert has suggested that a “bizarre accident” likely led to images of nude women appearing on a television in Superintendent Ryan Walters’ office during a closed-door State Board of Education meeting on July 24. The newly installed Samsung TV had automatically tuned to Samsung TV Plus channel 1204 (Movie Hub Action), where it played the 1985 film The Protector—whose scenes align with what board members reported seeing—followed by the 2017 film The Foreigner. Hilbert noted that the TV’s default streaming behavior, not an intentional act, is the most plausible explanation. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services assisted in the review, but investigations by the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office and the State Bureau of Investigation remain ongoing. 

 

Teacher effectiveness metric won’t be added to school evaluations, Education Department confirms (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma State Department of Education has decided not to include a “teacher effectiveness” metric in the public school report cards, a proposal that faced bipartisan backlash. The measure was intended to replace chronic absenteeism, assigning up to 10 points based on factors such as teacher certification, years of experience, attendance, professional development, and evaluations. Critics from both parties, including legislators like Rep. Ronny Johns and Rep. Ellen Pogemiller, argued that it could unfairly penalize schools struggling with staffing shortages and bypass the Legislature’s authority. While public comments were accepted through Friday, the Department has yet to propose an alternative metric to fill the void. 

 

Oklahoma Supreme Court declines to pause new social studies standards (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma Supreme Court has declined to issue a temporary pause on newly adopted social studies standards, allowing them to take effect for the next academic year while legal challenges proceed. A coalition of 33 parents, faith leaders, and educators filed suit in July, alleging the standards improperly inject Christian beliefs into public schools and were adopted without proper procedure. The court offered no explanation for its decision. Plaintiffs are represented by Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice and describe the ruling as “disappointing” but not final. Superintendent Ryan Walters praised the decision as a win for “hardworking Oklahoma families,” stating the new standards reflect “American exceptionalism” and vow to keep them central in education. The contested curriculum includes references to biblical stories for young students, questionable claims about discrepancies in the 2020 election, and theories about COVID-19’s origin.

 

Walters doubles down in support of conservative online school (Oklahoma Watch) — Oklahoma Superintendent Ryan Walters is pushing forward with efforts to secure state tax credits for tuition-paying families who enroll in American Virtual Academy—a conservative, PragerU-affiliated online K–12 program—even though the school is currently ineligible due to lacking state accreditation. Despite the Oklahoma Tax Commission’s ruling, Walters stated he intends to work with both the commission and the academy to get it approved by the start of the school year, framing the move as key to maintaining Oklahoma’s status as the most school-choice-friendly state in the nation. This aggressive advocacy continues his broader agenda to expand conservative and faith-aligned educational alternatives. 

 

New federal school voucher program poses a quandary for states: opt in or opt out? (Oklahoma Voice) — Under the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” signed by President Trump, states are granted the option to participate in the nation’s first federal tax-credit scholarship (voucher) program. The law provides wide state discretion to either opt out entirely, opt in passively, or actively reshape the program to prioritize supports like tutoring, transportation, and enrichment in underserved public schools. Jon Valant of the Brookings Institution describes the law as “not the federal voucher program we were worried about five years ago,” highlighting that states—particularly those led by Democrats—could creatively mold the program to reflect their priorities. However, progressives remain wary about potential privatization of public education, while some Democratic states wrestle with the dilemma of rejecting federal funds or losing influence over their use.

 

New rule places requirements on Oklahoma school counselors’ work time (Oklahoma Voice) — A new rule approved by the Oklahoma State Board of Education and Legislature requires public school counselors to dedicate at least 80 percent of their work time to direct and indirect counseling services—such as academic advising, career planning, and wellness support—and limit other duties to program planning and school support. The Oklahoma School Counselor Association supports the 80 percent standard, mirroring national best practices. However, counselors express concern over vague definitions of "work time" and lack of clarity on what counts as counseling versus non‑counseling tasks. Questions remain about accountability, with some counselors unsure whether duties like state testing or 504 plan management will be classified appropriately. The Department of Education notes examples of qualifying duties but has yet to provide firm guidance. Districts must submit comprehensive counseling plans, though smaller and rural districts warn of resource constraints in complying with the new standard.

 

Seifried, Caldwell interim study to examine use of technology in elementary education (Oklahoma Senate) — Senator Ally Seifried and Representative Chad Caldwell will co-host a joint interim study in the coming months to explore when it’s appropriate to introduce technology into elementary classrooms. The study will assess both benefits and challenges—particularly how increased screen time affects students’ health, academic performance, and mental well-being. The lawmakers plan to consult with local and national experts to strike a balance between innovative digital learning and traditional face-to-face instruction, reading physical books, and outdoor play. The study’s findings will inform potential legislation for the 2026 session, and is expected to conclude by October 31.

 

Trump pledges overhaul of school fitness tests (Oklahoma Voice) — President Donald Trump has signed an executive order reinstating the Presidential Fitness Test in public schools for the first time in over a decade, along with revamping the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition to develop the new program. The order cites rising childhood obesity, chronic disease, inactivity, and poor nutrition as threats to national strength, academic performance, and military readiness. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will oversee the test, which aims to recognize excellence in physical education through a fitness award. Experts like University of Michigan kinesiology professor Laura Richardson hope the updated test focuses more on encouraging holistic activity rather than merely measuring physical performance.

 

Federal judge dismisses lawsuit brought by Oklahoma school chief (Oklahoma Voice) — A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed in March by State Superintendent Ryan Walters and the Oklahoma State Department of Education against the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), which had sent letters to schools about school-sponsored prayers and Bible readings. The court ruled the lawsuit failed to show any tangible interference with daily school operations or any real injury. FFRF’s co-president, Annie Laurie Gaylor, called the case a “frivolous lawsuit seeking to muzzle free speech.” Walters defended the lawsuit, saying Christianity is under assault and vowing not to let Christian values be trampled in Oklahoma.

 

Oklahoma schools to continue charging meal fees, despite Walters’ demands (Oklahoma Voice) — Multiple school districts across Oklahoma have confirmed they will continue charging for student meals, defying recent calls from State Superintendent Ryan Walters to provide all school meals for free. District leaders cited financial impracticality, noting that dramatic budget cuts would be required to sustain universal free meals—and that no additional state funding has been allocated to support the initiative. Walters had warned of potential audits or penalties for noncompliant districts, labeling meal fees as an unfair “extra tax” on families. However, the Oklahoma State School Boards Association clarified that state law does not give the superintendent authority to punish districts over meal fee policies. School leaders emphasized the importance of stability as they head into the new school year, committed to maintaining staffing and meal plans as planned.

 

Burns raises concerns after attending OSSAA board meeting (Oklahoma House of Representatives) — Rep. Ty Burns (R‑Pawnee), a former public school teacher and coach, attended a meeting of the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association board and reiterated his belief that its structure prioritizes bureaucracy over the needs of students and families. He cited the board’s unanimous decisions to deny an appeal by Glencoe High School basketball players and reject a student hardship waiver as emblematic of the problem. Burns pointed to a 2022 interim study he led, which examined OSSAA’s finances, governance, and transfer eligibility rules, including concerns about hardship waivers and transparency. “The OSSAA is structured in a way that is unfair to student athletes and families,” Burns said, arguing that the system forces families to expend time and money on unnecessary process and that the board is “protecting the establishment, not the kids.”

 

 

ELECTIONS

Field expands in 2026 statewide races (The Oklahoman) — Oklahoma’s 2026 election cycle continues to take shape, with four additional candidates joining key statewide races. State Rep. Justin Humphrey (R-Lane), known for his sharp criticism of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, entered the Republican primary for lieutenant governor, joining Auditor Cindy Byrd, Sen. Darrell Weaver, and businessman Victor Flores. Kelly Forbes, of Oklahoma City, became the first Democrat to enter that race. Meanwhile, Jerry Griffin, a former Tulsa Public Schools board member, joined the growing Republican field for state superintendent of public instruction, bringing the total to four GOP candidates vying for the seat expected to be vacated by Ryan Walters, who is widely believed to be considering a gubernatorial run. The Republican field also expanded in the race for insurance commissioner with the addition of former state senator Marty Quinn, who will face Chris Merideth in the GOP primary.

 

Republican candidates vie for votes during sold-out fundraising dinner (Southwest Ledger) — At the 16th annual Beans & Baskets fundraiser in Altus, Oklahoma, Republican gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial candidates assembled to make their appeals ahead of the 2026 election. Charles McCall was the prominent gubernatorial candidate at the event, underscoring his experience in community banking and legislative leadership as central to his campaign. He highlighted his stance on key conservative issues, including tax cuts and limiting government oversight. Lieutenant gubernatorial candidates, including Darrel Weaver and Cindy Byrd, also spoke, each presenting their platforms to address state issues. The event was a significant gathering for local Republicans, providing direct interaction with candidates.

 

Demonstrators call for Ryan Walters' ouster citing controversies instead of better outcomes (The Oklahoman) — Around 300 demonstrators convened at the Oklahoma State Capitol to demand the impeachment of state Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters. The protest, organized by the Sooner State Party, voiced concerns over Walters' leadership and his alleged involvement in controversies, including a recent incident where inappropriate images were reportedly seen on a TV in his office and the state’s poor education ranking. Speakers at the rally, including leaders from local civil and political organizations, emphasized the need for a leader who genuinely supports educational improvement and accountability in Oklahoma.

 

Ethics commission votes to allow Oklahoma officials to use campaign funds for security (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma Ethics Commission unanimously approved an advisory opinion permitting state officeholders to allocate campaign funds for security expenses—but only when the threat is directly associated with holding public office and would not exist otherwise. The ruling establishes a three-pronged “but‑for” test: expenses must (1) be necessary solely because of the office, (2) relate specifically to threats tied to that office, and (3) be reasonable in nature. Acceptable uses include items like cameras, motion sensors, lighting, and cybersecurity—while costs for bodyguards, weapons, or high-end security systems are explicitly disallowed. The guidance stems from a bipartisan request by legislative leaders following a spate of politically motivated violence, including the assassination of a Minnesota lawmaker. Lawmakers from both parties praised the ruling as a commonsense step to balance public safety and accountability in campaign spending.

 

 

ENERGY

Southern Oklahoma hydrogen production facility proposal won't happen (KOSU) — The planned H2OK green hydrogen production facility in Ardmore, Oklahoma, designed to generate 290-megawatts and produce up to 90 tons of liquid hydrogen daily, has been canceled by Woodside Energy due to increased costs and lackluster demand in the lower-carbon hydrogen industry. Despite the setback, local officials remain optimistic about future projects, having already fostered relationships with potential investors. This cancellation is a blow to Southern Oklahoma's economic development, especially with recent job losses at local Michelin and Dollar Tree facilities.

 

States scramble to complete renewable energy projects before tax credits expire (Oklahoma Voice) — States across the U.S., including Oklahoma, are rapidly advancing renewable energy projects to leverage existing tax credits before they expire, a consequence of legislation signed by President Donald Trump. This move, which abruptly ends incentives previously slated to extend into the 2030s, could impact the affordability of clean energy. Leaders in various states are pushing for expedited permitting and grid connectivity to maximize the development window. While this change ups costs for consumers, state officials and industry leaders believe underlying policies and market trends will continue to support renewable energy growth despite the loss of federal incentives.

 

OG&E cites controversial new utility law in plans to refile request to raise rates (The Oklahoman) — Oklahoma Gas & Electric (OG&E) plans to refile a rate increase request under a controversial new law, Senate Bill 998, which allows utilities to recover costs from consumers before new facilities are operational. SB 998 influences the Oklahoma Corporation Commission's review timelines and practices, enabling pre-operational cost recovery known as “construction work in progress” (CWIP). Critics argue this law burdens ratepayers unfairly by making them fund projects early, potentially before benefits are realized. OG&E suggests the law will save customers $190 million in future costs, despite the heavy initial financial load it imposes on them.

 

State regulators approve $41M rate increase for Oklahoma Natural Gas (Southwest Ledger) — Oklahoma utility regulators have approved a rate increase for customers of Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG), which will result in an additional expense of $1.69 per month for residential customers and 57 cents for low-income ratepayers. This decision, a modification from the original request by ONG due to the incorporation of Excess Deferred Income Tax credits and rebates from energy efficiency overcharges, affects around 924,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Oklahoma. The approved increase comes after a settlement, supported by multiple parties including the state Attorney General’s office, and aims to cover costs associated with significant capital improvements by ONG.

 

Power and Pushback: Mayes County’s Solar Farm Projects Spark Debate (The Pryor Information Publication) — Four large-scale solar farms are currently being developed in Mayes County, Oklahoma, by Leeward Renewable Energy and are expected to be operational by the end of 2025. These solar facilities, collectively named Mayes County Solar, are projected to generate 370 megawatts of power and more than $78 million in tax revenue over their lifespan, benefiting local schools and infrastructure without raising local taxes. The development uses land with minimal environmental impact, including initiatives for pollinator planting and soil restoration. However, some local residents express concerns about the impact on rural roads, noise, and loss of farmland.

 

 

HEALTH & MENTAL HEALTH CARE

Federal court upholds Oklahoma ban on gender-affirming care for minors (Oklahoma Voice) — A federal appeals court ruled unanimously that Oklahoma's 2023 ban on gender‑affirming medical care for minors does not constitute discrimination against transgender youth. The Tenth Circuit based its decision on precedent established by the Supreme Court in United States v. Skrmetti. The law—enacted via Senate Bill 613—prohibits gender‑affirming treatments for those under 18 and penalizes medical providers with felony charges for violating the ban. Groups including Lambda Legal and the ACLU of Oklahoma, which represented transgender youth and their families in court, expressed disappointment and signaled intent to appeal. Attorney General Gentner Drummond welcomed the ruling, saying the state has prevailed in protecting “our children” from what he called damaging procedures.

 

Medicaid could fund more services for Oklahoma students under new proposal (The Oklahoman) — Pending federal approval, Oklahoma schools could potentially increase Medicaid funding for student services such as occupational and speech therapy, and behavioral health. Currently, only services provided to Medicaid-eligible students on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are reimbursable. However, a proposed state plan amendment aims to expand this to include other types of care plans and additional services with parental consent. If successful, this could enhance support for students with special needs, increase state revenue from Medicaid, and provide schools with resources for diverse medical services.

 

Stitt bars Oklahoma groups with ties to abortion providers from receiving Medicaid funding (Oklahoma Voice) — Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma has issued a directive to all state agencies to stop providing public funding, including Medicaid funds, to any individual or organization that is affiliated with abortion providers. This decision may impact several groups that offer a range of healthcare services beyond abortion, such as cancer screenings and reproductive health care, potentially affecting the accessibility of these services for residents across the state.

 

Lawmakers push to regulate Oklahoma medical debt, hospital price transparency (Oklahoma Voice) — Oklahoma legislators from both parties are advancing measures to shield residents from burdensome medical debt and enhance pricing transparency from hospitals. Senate Bill 889 mandates that hospitals post clear, easy-to-understand prices for their most commonly used services, with penalties for noncompliance, and goes into effect November 1. Meanwhile, House Bill 4148, passed in 2024, requires debt collectors to verify hospital compliance with transparency rules before seeking to collect medical debts. Lawmakers are also exploring broader protections—through Senate Bill 519 and House Bill 1709—to prevent medical debt from harming credit scores, particularly when bills stem from emergency or lifesaving care. The moves reflect growing concern that medical debt—one of the leading causes of bankruptcy—often deters people from seeking necessary care.

 

Oklahoma Supreme Court puts TSET law on hold (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma Supreme Court has paused enforcement of a new law (House Bill 2783) slated to take effect August 28, which critics argue undermines the independence of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET), a constitutionally established board managing nearly $2 billion in public funds. The law would allow appointing authorities to remove board members at will and impose term limits of seven years, replacing historically staggered terms. TSET challenged the law’s constitutionality, asserting that only a vote of the people can alter board terms because its structure is enshrined in the state Constitution. The court’s hold prevents the law from taking effect until further ruling. 

 

Rep. Daniel Pae honored as 2025 legislative champion by national mental health nonprofit (Oklahoma House of Representatives) — Representative Daniel Pae (R‑Lawton), chair of the House Appropriations & Budget Subcommittee on Human Services and co-chair of the bipartisan Oklahoma Mental Health Caucus, has been recognized as a 2025 Legislative Champion by Mental Health America. The award, presented by the nation's leading community-based mental health advocacy nonprofit, acknowledges his efforts to expand access to mental health support. He was also recognized for authoring House Bill 2012, which extends harm‑reduction programming—including initiatives focused on substance use—through improved statewide community health outcomes. The bill passed the House but has not yet received a hearing in the Senate.

 

 

HIGHER EDUCATION & CAREER TECH

Teacher apprenticeship program launches in Oklahoma (Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education) — Ninety Oklahomans have begun earning teaching certificates while working at schools through the newly launched Teaching to Teach Apprenticeship Program. This initiative, a collaboration between Oklahoma CareerTech, the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO), and the Workforce Commission, aims to boost the number of certified educators by offering scholarships to those pursuing alternative, emergency, or standard certification pathways while employed in districts, technology centers, or early learning centers. Participants receive up to $10,000 per semester to cover tuition, books, and certification exam vouchers, supported by federal ARPA funding. They study at one of six regional universities and receive on-the-job mentoring, with RUSO emphasizing this model as an innovative solution for growing the teacher workforce and investing in professionals already serving Oklahoma students.

 

 

HUMAN SERVICES

Oklahoma receives green light to remove soda, candy from food stamp eligibility list (Oklahoma Voice) — Oklahoma has received federal approval to exclude sodas and candy from the list of allowable items under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), effective January 1, 2026. This decision, part of Gov. Kevin Stitt's Making Oklahoma Healthy Again campaign, aims to reduce the consumption of non-nutritious items like soft drinks and candy, which are linked to obesity and chronic diseases. Critics, however, argue that there is no solid evidence that these restrictions will have any significant impact on the health outcomes of SNAP beneficiaries. The change will realign the program closer to its goal of improving food security through access to nutritious food.

 

OU’s Fostering Hope of Tulsa Named Foster Care Center of Excellence (The University of Oklahoma) — Oklahoma Complete Health has recognized Fostering Hope of Tulsa as the first Foster Care Center of Excellence (FCCOE). Staffed by the OU School of Community Medicine, the center is tailored for youth in foster care, providing trauma-informed, specialized care. The FCCOE initiative seeks to bridge the gap in healthcare for foster children by offering comprehensive services that include mental health evaluations, developmental screenings, and strong community resource networks. This designation underscores efforts to address healthcare disparities among Oklahoma’s foster youth, ensuring they receive consistent and effective medical and psychological care.

 

New—and more accessible—Human Services center to open in Oklahoma County (Oklahoma Department of Human Services) — A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 11 a.m. on Monday, July 28, marking the grand opening of the new Oklahoma County Human Services Center at 1124 NE 36th Street in Oklahoma City. The modern, customer-focused facility is designed to support Oklahomans seeking assistance with food benefits, child care subsidies, child support services, and more—all under one roof, with enhanced digital infrastructure to streamline both in-person and online service delivery. DHS Director Jeffrey Cartmell emphasized that the expanded presence in the county reflects a commitment to providing high-quality, coordinated support and stronger community collaboration.

 

 

STATE GOVERNMENT

Network outage hits multiple Oklahoma agencies (Oklahoma Voice) — A statewide network outage on Tuesday prompted several state agencies to close early or send staff home. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) confirmed the issue was not a security breach and worked swiftly to resolve it by late afternoon. Agencies affected included the Department of Labor, the Ethics Commission, the Department of Corrections (administrative staff only), and the Attorney General’s office, which experienced delays in some operations. Importantly, the outage did not affect elections in 22 counties. The Pardon and Parole Board couldn’t connect to certain correctional facilities but continued proceedings through attorney representation.

 

Oklahoma AG launches open records compliance complaint portal (Oklahoma Voice) — The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office has introduced an online portal for citizens to submit complaints about denied open records requests, marking a significant step toward improved transparency. Enabled by House Bill 2163—recently enacted despite Governor Kevin Stitt’s veto—the portal empowers the newly formed Public Access Counselor Unit to accept, review, and mediate grievances. Attorney General Gentner Drummond emphasized that previously, Oklahomans lacked access to affordable recourse when requests were wrongfully rejected. Now, the unit has up to 60 days to facilitate compliance under the Open Records Act, and Anthony Sykes has been appointed as the public access counselor overseeing the process.

 

Trump DOJ and Drummond partner to end in-state tuition for illegal immigrants (oklahoma.gov) — Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, in alliance with President Trump’s U.S. Department of Justice, has filed a motion to terminate the state law that allows illegal immigrants to benefit from in-state tuition rates at colleges and universities. Drummond emphasized this practice as discriminatory and unlawful against out-of-state U.S. citizens. The motion seeks a ruling from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma that this statute violates the Supremacy Clause and should be invalidated.

 

State government gets down to business at fifth State Suppliers Expo (Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services) — Oklahoma’s 2025 State Suppliers Expo took place August 5–6 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, welcoming over 600 attendees for two days of direct engagement between state agencies and private-sector companies. The event—organized by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services—aimed to demystify state procurement and onboard new vendors, resulting in 25 newly registered suppliers and 41 new bidders ready to submit competitive proposals. Attendees benefited from high-value programming, including networking opportunities, breakout sessions tailored to industries, and a new higher education booth featuring representatives from OU and OSU. OMES purchasing director Amanda Otis highlighted the value of such events: agencies leave connected with trusted vendors, businesses gain a clearer roadmap to state contracts, and taxpayers benefit from more cost-effective procurement.

 

Oklahoma governor Kevin Stitt elected to lead National Governors Association (KGOU) — Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has been elected chair of the bipartisan National Governors Association (NGA) for the 2025–2026 term. He took over the role during the NGA’s summer meeting in Colorado Springs, with Maryland Governor Wes Moore named vice chair. As chair, Stitt unveiled his signature initiative: “Reigniting the American Dream,” centered on bolstering access to good jobs, enhancing education systems, and promoting energy security. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of hope as a key driver of success across social and economic outcomes.

 

Former President Clinton and state leaders honor George Nigh at heartfelt memorial (KOCO) — Oklahomans gathered at Crossings Community Church to celebrate the life of former Governor George Nigh, who passed away at age 98. Speaking fondly of their decades-long friendship, former President Bill Clinton reflected on their shared beginnings in gubernatorial office and praised Nigh for always extending a welcoming hand—not a clenched fist. “He came at other people with an outstretched hand,” Clinton said, recalling Nigh’s positivity and genuine desire to help people rise through public service. Oklahoma leaders, including Governor Kevin Stitt, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, and Superintendent Jamie Polk, joined the tribute, honoring Nigh’s legacy of unity and kindness. The service concluded — as the family requested — with a moving rendition of the state song, “Oklahoma!” — capturing the heartfelt spirit of the day.

 

Oklahoma lawmakers to tackle dark money, water and artificial intelligence during the interim (Oklahoma Voice) — During the legislative interim, the Oklahoma House has approved 127 study topics to inform future policymaking. Among them are investigations into undisclosed political “dark money,” the handling of abandoned medical marijuana dispensaries and chemical disposal, and the overdose of the state’s water resources—with a focus on metering private and agricultural wells. Lawmakers will also review the practices of the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board, examining transparency, fairness, staffing, and compensation. Separately, one study will explore the use of artificial intelligence in finance, law, and public policy to guide responsible state-level deployment. The interim study period spans from August 4 to November 6.

 

House Speaker Kyle Hilbert Launches “Capitol to Community” Statewide Series (Oklahoma House of Representatives (.gov)) — Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert has initiated a new statewide series called "Capitol to Community" aimed at fostering stronger connections between state legislators and local communities. This initiative involves representatives spending a full day in different communities across Oklahoma, engaging with local leaders, businesses, and residents to understand their challenges and successes. The first event took place in Ada, Oklahoma, with activities that included discussions on tribal-state partnerships, mental health, and law enforcement training. More events are scheduled in Broken Arrow and Woodward, emphasizing the importance of direct engagement and listening to local needs.

 

Tipton defends OHP plan to redirect troopers from metros to rural areas (NonDoc Media) — Oklahoma's Department of Public Safety Commissioner Tim Tipton announced that starting November 1, 2025, Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers will no longer be the primary responders to traffic incidents on metro-area interstates which will now fall under local law enforcement agencies. This move aims to redistribute resources to ensure 24/7 coverage across rural interstate areas where there is currently less law enforcement presence. The decision has faced strong opposition from law enforcement leaders in metro areas such as Tulsa and Oklahoma City, with concerns about the increased burden on local police forces and the timeliness of responses to road incidents.

 

AG: Closing the door on corruption (oklahoma.gov) — Oklahoma Attorney General celebrated the passage of House Bill 2163 and House Bill 2164 aimed at enhancing government transparency and ethics. HB 2163 establishes the Public Access Counselor Unit to aid Oklahomans in open records requests, offering mediation without cost and ensuring compliance with the Open Records Act. HB 2164, set to take effect on November 1, prevents public officials from using their positions for personal gain, upgrading certain corruption crimes to felonies, and mandating ethics training for new state agency heads. Both bills, initially vetoed by Governor Stitt, were reinstated by legislative override, reflecting strong bipartisan support for transparency and accountability in government operations.

 

Oklahoma AG calls out state auditor over continued delays in turnpike audit (Oklahoma Voice) — Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed frustration that an investigative audit of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, requested in March 2023, remains unfinished more than two years later. Drummond noted he is unaware of any similar audit in the state’s history taking this long. His concerns include improper financial transfers between OTA and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, questionable contracts, and weak internal controls. State Auditor Cindy Byrd responded that her office was already tied up auditing pandemic spending and financial issues at the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services—delays Drummond had agreed to under the circumstances. OTA’s executive director and board member emphasized that while the authority is routinely audited, this is its first investigation of this scale and scope—and that the $150,000 special audit is redundant, given existing annual and third-party oversight. The Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency is expected to issue its own report on OTA soon.

 

50 attorneys general urge DOJ to crack down on illegal online gambling (Oklahoma Voice) — Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, along with a bipartisan coalition of 49 other state attorneys general, is urging the U.S. Department of Justice to intensify efforts against illegal offshore gambling operations. In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, the group cited the damaging impact of these unregulated platforms, which often lack age verification, skirt state boundaries, and evade taxation. The attorneys general estimate that illegal online gambling results in over $4 billion in lost state tax revenue annually and facilitates broader criminal activities such as money laundering and human trafficking. They’re asking the DOJ to use tools like domain seizure, injunctions, and coordination with payment processors like Visa and Mastercard—who have expressed willingness to assist—to shut down these operations and protect consumers nationwide.

 

Oklahoma Arts Council budget cuts are showing up at Capitol, unfilled positions (The Oklahoman) — After a challenging spring where many arts organizations across the country faced canceled grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Oklahoma Arts Council has confirmed its budget. However, the budget cuts are evident with several positions remaining unfilled. This development could impact the support and resources available to local arts entities in Oklahoma, possibly affecting the cultural landscape and associated economic activities within the state.

 

 

TRIBAL RELATIONS

Oklahoma tax case could affect tribes nationwide if brought to Supreme Court (KOSU) — In Oklahoma, Alicia Stroble, a Muscogee (Creek) citizen challenged the state Tax Commission's authority to tax her income, arguing her exemption due to residence and employment within tribal lands. Despite her claims, supported by significant tribal backing, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled against her by stating that federal laws on tribal sovereignty do not cover civil cases like tax disputes. This decision, contested under the reasoning that earlier federal rulings even recognized fee lands as part of reservations, could head to the U.S. Supreme Court, potentially influencing tribal-state taxation issues nationwide.

 

Tribal gaming revenues hit record $43.9B as growth streak continues (Tribal Business News) — Tribal gaming revenues in the United States reached a new high of $43.9 billion in fiscal 2024, a 4.6% increase from the previous year, continuing a four-year growth streak. This record performance was highlighted across all eight National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) administrative regions, with significant contributions from the Oklahoma City region. The revenues support crucial community programs including job growth, education, and health services, demonstrating the vital role of tribal gaming in promoting tribal sovereignty and economic stability.