Welcome to the Oklahoma House of Representatives

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, will recognize Autism Advocacy Day, which falls on Thursday, April 3, on the floor of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, honoring autism advocates and emphasizing the need for continued support of individuals on the autism spectrum. "I’m always proud to stand with the autism community and acknowledge the hard work of advocates who are making a real difference," Miller said. "Autism Awareness and Acceptance is essential for creating a more inclusive Oklahoma where everyone has the opportunity to succeed." The Autism Foundation of Oklahoma was a key advocate behind the 2015 autism insurance reform bill and the voluntary designation on driver licenses and state identification cards legislation. Several organizations focused on raising awareness of the needs of individuals with autism will have booths and speak at Autism Advocacy Day on Thursday, at the Capitol. Rep. Miller notes Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month begins April 1, World Autism Day begins April 2 and Autism Advocacy Day begins April 3. This recognition reflects Rep. Miller's ongoing commitment to supporting autism advocacy in Oklahoma and ensuring the voices of individuals impacted by autism are heard at the state level.

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives passed House Bill 2265 last week, authored by Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, to modernize the appointment and regulation of notaries public in the state. The bill introduces new professional standards, including a required examination, enhanced record-keeping measures and strengthened compliance protocols. "Notaries are essential to the integrity of many legal and financial processes, and this bill ensures they have the knowledge and tools needed to carry out their duties responsibly," Miller said. "By establishing a clear examination process and requiring notaries to maintain detailed records, we are reinforcing the professionalism and accountability that Oklahomans expect from these important public officials." County Clerk Maressa Treat emphasized the bill’s role in combating property fraud in Oklahoma. "I appreciate Representative Miller’s work on this important legislation as it strengthens the professionalism and accountability of notaries in Oklahoma. As the Oklahoma County Clerk, we have seen an increase in property theft, often committed through fraudulent notaries. Passing responsible legislation like this is one step closer to eliminating property theft in Oklahoma and ensuring greater security for all Oklahomans." Under HB2265, individuals applying for a new notary commission will need to pass an examination covering laws, procedures and ethical responsibilities related to notarial acts. The bill also mandates that notaries maintain a detailed journal of all notarial acts for at least ten years, ensuring transparency and long-term record security. These journals must be stored in a tamper-evident format, whether physical or electronic, to safeguard against alterations. "The goal here is simple: to ensure that notaries have the education and resources they need to perform their duties with the highest standards of integrity," Miller continued. "By strengthening these regulations, we’re not just protecting the public, but also supporting the professionals who help ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of countless legal documents every day." The bill does not increase application fees for new or renewing notaries but provides clear guidelines for the commission process. Additionally, it outlines a procedure for handling notary journals in cases of resignation, revocation or death, ensuring proper record retention and accessibility. "By modernizing these regulations, we’re making it easier for notaries to do their jobs right and helping Oklahomans trust the notarial services they rely on," Miller said. HB2265 passed the House 90-3 and now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, the House of Representatives officially recognizes April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Oklahoma by adopting House Resolution 1011 , sponsored by Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay. This resolution acknowledges the importance of raising awareness about child abuse prevention and taking collective action to protect Oklahoma’s children and strengthen families. In Oklahoma, there were 13,546 substantiated cases of child abuse or neglect, with 10,525 of those involving first-time victims. The statistics highlight the critical need for heightened vigilance and support for vulnerable families across the state. “It is easier to build healthy and strong children than to repair broken adults," said Roe. "Every child deserves to be safe, nurtured and supported in caring relationships. Every family deserves to be supported in a community that encourages safety and well-being, that’s why it’s vital we raise awareness of how we can all contribute to preventing child abuse.” HR1011 encourages all citizens, businesses and social institutions in Oklahoma to dedicate themselves to supporting parents and families in raising safe, healthy children. The resolution shows the significance of community involvement in providing the resources and assistance needed to ensure the safety and well-being of Oklahoma’s children. "Child abuse can be prevented, and everyone has a role to play,” said Roe. "By working together—neighbors, teachers, faith leaders, businesses and policymakers—we can create a culture where prevention is the priority, and no child has to suffer the devastating effects of abuse or neglect.” April also serves as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.