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OKLAHOMA CITY – State lawmakers who represent the Enid area this morning issued the following statement after a powerful tornado struck Enid and Vance Air Force Base. Reports show at least 10 injured and homes destroyed in a neighborhood on the south side of Enid. Reps. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene, Carl Newton, R-Cherokee, and John Pfeiffer, R-Orlanda, all represent a portion of Enid or the surrounding area.  "We are praying for those affected and thankful there are no casualties, according to early reports," the lawmakers said in a joint statement. "We know, however, that the loss of a home or damage to a business can be life-altering. We also know that Oklahomans will rise to help their neighbors and there will be support in the days, weeks and months ahead as recovery takes place. We're thankful to all of our courageous first responders and to city, county and state personnel who worked tirelessly overnight to account for everyone. We're grateful, as well, to our amazing meteorologists who issued early warnings and alerts and who stay on the air through these storms to keep Oklahomans safe and informed. Their actions likely saved countless lives."  The lawmakers said there are reports of damage to Vance Air Force Base, including to perimeter structures and downed electrical lines, which is causing a loss of water supply. OG&E crews worked after the storm to restore service. The Grey Ridge Estate, directly east of the base and across U.S. Highway 81 was largely destroyed. Local emergency medical personnel searched and recovered all residents, and injuries were not serious, according to reports. The hope is for residents to be allowed back into the area today to begin to recover personal property. The representatives also report that linemen were out as soon as possible after the tornado to begin to restore service and minimize additional loss. It is reported the governor will tour the damaged area this afternoon along with city and county officials.

Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, praised recent action by President Donald Trump to accelerate federal approval pathways for psychedelic-assisted therapies targeting mental health and addiction. Pae has authored several measures in recent years to study the use of certain psychedelic drugs for such treatments. The executive order directs the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to fast-track review of psychedelic therapies and expand research access for patients suffering from serious conditions such as depression and substance use disorders. It expands access to experimental treatments, including through pathways like the federal Right to Try Act . "President Trump's executive order marks a major step forward in addressing our nation’s mental health and addiction crises," Pae said. "Emerging research shows these treatments could offer real hope for individuals who have exhausted traditional options. I commend President Trump for responsibly accelerating research so we can better understand these tools and, if proven safe, make them available to those who desperately need help. I look forward to continuing this work in Oklahoma and supporting further study at both the state and federal level." Last year, Pae introduced House Bill 4293 to expand research opportunities and further evaluate the safety and efficacy of psychedelic treatments for Oklahomans struggling with mental illness and addiction. In 2024, he passed House Bill 2107 , which established a pilot program to study the use of psilocybin-assisted therapy for certain mental health conditions. The measure was approved in the House but was not heard in the Senate. Growing evidence suggest that psychedelic compounds may have significant therapeutic potential for treatment-resistant depression and substance use disorders when used in controlled, clinical settings. A 2025 study found that a single dose of lysergide, combined with psychotherapy, could ease anxiety for up to a year.

Legislation designating certain degrees or certificates in postsecondary institutions as "credentials of value" was signed into law last week. Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, authored House Bill 2398 to encourage the improvement of student outcomes and increase workforce alignment. The bill authorizes the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) and the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (CareerTech) to establish qualifying degrees and certificates as "Credentials of Value." Qualifying degrees and certificates must demonstrably provide a positive return on investments for students, fill a labor market demand or meet a need in the state's workforce. "Oklahoma is constantly growing, and students need to know what educational pathways will open doors for them," Hill said. "House Bill 2398 helps students find the right career for them by providing the necessary resources to make informed decisions for their future. I am thankful to the governor and my fellow legislators for their support of this legislation as we work together to create a brighter future for Oklahoma." Under the measure, programs designated a "credential of value" must produce annual reporting on completion rates, employment outcomes, earnings and program costs. Hill said this information will assist students in choosing a career that will provide them with long-term success. Sen. Aaron Reinhardt, R-Jenks, is the Senate author of the bill. "I appreciate the governor’s support of this legislation that gives every student the information they need to make an educated decision about their future," Reinhardt said. "Through cooperation and collaboration among colleges, universities, career technology centers and workforce leaders, we can show students which degrees and credentials offer real economic value, leading them to successful, high-demand careers." "Designating Credentials of Value that directly align with local and state workforce needs positions colleges and universities to prioritize academic programs in critical fields, our state to meet changing employer demands, and Oklahomans to make informed education and career choices that can lead to lifetime success," said OSRHE Chancellor Sean Burrage. "Thank you, Rep. Hill, Sen. Reinhardt, and Gov. Stitt, for your vision and leadership throughout the transition from legislation to law." HB2398 will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die.