Committees

OKLAHOMA CITY – Key legislation to eliminate an archaic state law that forces retailers to add a 6% markup to everyday consumer goods is one step closer to the governor’s desk. The Unfair Sales Act – legislation from Senate Majority Floor Leader Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and House Majority Deputy Floor Leader Steve Bashore, R-Miami – passed the House unanimously on Tuesday, putting the Oklahoma Legislature one step closer to eliminating a relatively unknown price hike on groceries and consumer goods. Senate Bill 638 repeals the state’s 76-year-old Price Control Act that forces Oklahoma businesses to impose a minimum 6% markup on retail goods like gasoline, groceries, over-the-counter medicines, diapers and other basic necessities. Daniels said Oklahoma is one of just seven states with a mandatory markup on retail goods because many other states have rescinded similar laws in recent years. “Repealing this outdated law reinforces the Legislature’s commitment to providing inflation relief for hardworking Oklahomans by putting more money back in their pockets,” Daniels said. “Coming on the heels of eliminating the state grocery tax — the largest tax cut in Oklahoma history — this bill takes another meaningful step toward helping families save on everyday essentials while eliminating an unnecessary government mandate.” Bashore, whose hometown is just a short drive from Missouri and Kansas, said this legislation encourages Oklahomans to keep their shopping local. "Forcing Oklahomans to pay 6% more for everyday items is simply unacceptable,” Bashore said. “We want our residents to shop in state for what they need without going to surrounding states where this unfair markup no longer exists. This will ultimately benefit the taxpayer, our local businesses and our overall state economy, and will allow the free market to flourish as intended. “I am extremely honored to partner with Senator Daniels to make positive change benefiting all Oklahomans. I'm incredibly pleased to have secured passage of this bill in House, especially gaining bipartisan support." The bill was amended in the House and now returns to the Senate for fourth reading and final passage before being sent to the governor for his consideration of signing it into law. 

Southwest Oklahoma legislators are thanking Governor Kevin Stitt for his declaration of a state of emergency following historic flooding. Reps. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton; Rep. Rande Worthen, R-Lawton; Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon; Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin; Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin; and Sen. Spencer Kern, R-Duncan; released the following statement Tuesday: "We are incredibly grateful to Governor Stitt for his swift and decisive action in declaring a state of emergency in the wake of the historic flooding that has devastated our communities. This declaration is a crucial step in unlocking the resources we need to begin recovery and ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.  We appreciate the relentless work of our first responders to protect lives and minimize damage during this time of crisis. Lives have been upended, homes and businesses damaged, and critical infrastructure compromised, but following this declaration, we can begin to mobilize much-needed assistance and coordinate with state and local agencies to address both immediate needs and long-term rebuilding efforts."  Multiple storm systems has caused massive flooding in southwest Oklahoma. Lawton has received an estimated 11.48 inches of rain throughout April, and additional rainfall is expected Tuesday and Wednesday. Additional areas included in the emergency declaration include Cotton and Cleveland counties. The state of emergency declaration, filed with the Secretary of State's office on Tuesday, may be found here .

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation carried by Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, to modernize the process for selling state-owned railroad assets passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives by a vote of 81-8. Senate Bill 341 directs the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to initiate a request for proposals process for the sale of any railroad assets owned by the state. Interested parties would have 120 days to respond. “This bill reflects our responsibility to manage state resources wisely and transparently,” Kerbs said. “By outlining a fair and open process for selling surplus rail properties, we’re not only protecting taxpayer interests but also creating opportunities for local development. It’s a practical solution that balances accountability with the potential for private-sector innovation.” Under the bill, ODOT is responsible for evaluating all proposals. If necessary, the department may conduct an economic impact or activity study as part of the evaluation process. The ODOT director must present a recommendation to the Transportation Commission within 90 days after reviewing the proposals. The measure also clarifies that any purchases made under a lease-purchase agreement must be approved by the Transportation Commission. Sen. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, is the Senate author of SB 341 and, alongside Rep. Kerbs, brings a longstanding commitment to transportation policy and infrastructure development as the measure moves through the legislative process. “With the Legislature’s approval of Senate Bill 341, we’re opening doors for economic development and growth by making it easier to transfer underutilized state-owned railroads to the private sector,” Frix said. “Putting these rail lines back in the hands of the private sector will strengthen our state’s railroads and our transportation system overall. This bill is an important step toward modernizing our rail infrastructure, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.” SB341 now moves to the governor's desk for consideration. If signed into law, it would go into effect July 1.