Welcome to the Oklahoma House of Representatives

OKLAHOMA CITY - Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, and Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, today released the following statements regarding the arrest of a Tecumseh High School student accused of making social media threats to harm other students. "This situation is deeply troubling, and hits close to home for our entire community," Sterling said. "I have been working closely with the OSBI, local law enforcement and school officials since the initial arrest. Their quick action not only prevented further tragedy but also uncovered a broader, coordinated effort to target schools nationwide. Situations like this are fluid and must be handled discreetly so that investigators can continue uncovering information that could save more lives. I am incredibly grateful for the swift and thorough work being done to keep our students safe." "As a former educator of 40 years, 16 of those as a principal at Tecumseh High School, I understand the fear and uncertainty that come with threats like this. No parent should have to wonder if their child is safe at school. Going into this next legislative session, we must make school safety, including the discussion of metal detectors and funding to further support them, a top priority. Our students, parents and teachers deserve peace of mind knowing that our schools are safe places to learn and grow," Sterling said. Tecumseh Public Schools cancelled classes Monday and Tuesday. The student has been charged with making terroristic threats, threatening an act of violence, violating the Computer Crimes Act and possessing and distributing obscene material. Kerbs, who represents the district neighboring Tecumseh, emphasized that everyone is working together to ensure the safety of Oklahoma communities. "Shawnee and District 26 stand ready to support our neighbors," Kerbs said. "We are concerned, and we are committed to doing everything possible to provide the safety our schools need." Should local school districts decide to purchase metal detectors, funding is available. Public school boards in Oklahoma can purchase metal detectors through various means, including general funds, the School Security Revolving Fund, grant opportunities and federal resources. School board members are best positioned to determine the needs of their school grounds, and they are elected by local voters to represent those interests.

Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, has been appointed by House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, to serve on the Uniform Law Commission (ULC), a national organization that works to promote consistency and clarity in state laws across the United States. Commissioners to the ULC, established in 1892, must be members of the bar and are appointed from every state. The ULC drafts and promotes enactment of uniform state law to ensure legal consistency in certain policy areas, such as business transactions, occupational licensing and emerging technologies. "I’m honored to represent Oklahoma on the Uniform Law Commission," Harris said. "This organization plays a critical role in maintaining stability and fairness in our legal system, especially as new challenges arise in areas like technology, privacy and commerce. I look forward to working with fellow commissioners to help shape policies that strengthen our state laws while preserving our constitutional principles." Harris, an attorney with experience in both private legal practice and public service, brings extensive legal and policy experience to the role. He is licensed to practice law in Texas and all Oklahoma state and federal district courts, as well as the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Hilbert thanked Harris for his willingness to serve, noting his legal expertise and commitment to sound governance. "Representative Harris has demonstrated exceptional judgment and a strong understanding of complex legal issues," Hilbert said. "He will represent Oklahoma well on the Uniform Law Commission and ensure our state’s perspective is part of these important national policy discussions." The ULC meets annually and operates through committees that draft and review proposed uniform acts. These acts are later submitted to state legislatures for adoption, allowing states to modernize and harmonize their legal frameworks without federal intervention.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee, received a Legislative Hero Award recently from the Oklahoma Nurses Association (ONA). He was recognized during an awards luncheon held Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Embassy Suites Conference and Convention Center in Norman. ONA said the Legislative Hero Award was given to Fetgatter in appreciation of his support and guidance on legislation supporting nurses, the nursing profession and the health of all Oklahomans. "Nurses perform such tireless work to assure Oklahomans are taken care off both in and out of our health care facilities," Fetgatter said. "It's an honor to be recognized for my work in trying to improve the lives and working conditions of those who give back to each one of us, while also ensuring Oklahomans have access to quality and affordable healthcare." Fetgatter was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2016 to represent House District 16, which includes parts of Muskogee, Okmulgee and Tulsa counties. He currently serves as Tribal and External Affairs Leader in the House. He's also a business owner.