Conference Committees

Legislation that would strengthen Oklahoma's international trade relationships and bolster economic development has been sent to the governor. Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, secured final passage of Senate Bill 209 on Thursday. The measure would create the Taiwan Regional Trade Office within the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. The office is designed to facilitate economic relationships between Oklahoma-based businesses and businesses in Taiwan, as well as promote trade and investment opportunities. "Oklahoma and Taiwan have a decades-long friendship based on mutual respect and shared democratic values," Pae said. "This trade office would grow that relationship through strategic commerce. This initiative will not only support Oklahoma entrepreneurs and businesses but also demonstrate our commitment to strengthening international ties that contribute to long-term economic growth." SB209 now awaits the governor’s signature. 

Wilk praises passage of Oklahoma Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025   The Oklahoma House of Representatives this week passed Senate Bill 20 by a vote of 71-13. SB20, or the Oklahoma Secure Roads and Safe Trucking Act of 2025, is a measure that strengthens requirements for non-domiciled commercial drivers operating in the state. Authored by Representative Jonathan Wilk, R-Goldsby, the bill mandates that all foreign commercial drivers possess a valid work visa, provide proof of citizenship and demonstrate English language proficiency. “This legislation puts an end to the days of foreign drivers slipping through the cracks and putting our citizens at risk,” said Rep. Wilk. “President Trump showed us the importance of securing our borders and standing up for American workers. SB 20 brings that same America First mindset to Oklahoma roads. We are no longer going to tolerate drivers who can’t prove who they are, can’t speak the language, and can’t follow the law. I am thankful to all of my colleagues, leadership and Senator Kendal Sacchieri for getting this done." This bill directly aligns with President Trump’s executive order signed earlier this year, which reinforces state authority to enforce immigration and transportation laws as part of a broader crackdown on illegal labor and unvetted foreign workers. Under SB 20, any non-domiciled commercial driver without proper documentation will face a $3,000 fine and be barred from operating a vehicle until they meet all identification and visa requirements. Those who violate the prohibition will be charged with a misdemeanor, face up to 90 days in jail, and be subject to additional fines. The legislation also imposes English language requirements to ensure that all commercial drivers can safely and effectively communicate with law enforcement, emergency responders, and the motoring public. Speaker of the House Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, also praised the passing of the bill. "President Trump has led the way and made it clear: we’re done with the chaos and we’re standing up for legal, law-abiding, hardworking Americans," said Speaker Hilbert. "This bill reinforces the rule of law and strengthens public safety. I commend the work Rep. Wilk did to get this bill across the finish line. The bill also includes enforcement provisions for commercial carriers and cargo owners, ensuring that no one escapes responsibility when Oklahoma laws are broken. All fines collected under SB 20 will be directed toward weigh station infrastructure and trauma care, helping protect communities across the state. SB 20 now heads to Governor Kevin Stitt’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law.

Legislation designed to safeguard Oklahoma’s legal system from foreign influence has been signed into law by the governor.  House Bill 2619 , authored by Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, and known as the Foreign Litigation Funding Prevention Act, increases transparency in civil litigation and prevents foreign adversaries from covertly funding lawsuits in Oklahoma courts. The new law requires that commercial litigation funding agreements be disclosed during litigation proceedings.  "I appreciate the governor's support of this measure," Harris said. "It is essential that we preserve the sanctity of our courts and keep them free from corruption by foreign powers seeking to manipulate outcomes for their own gain. By requiring full transparency in commercial litigation funding, we are reinforcing trust in our legal institutions and taking a proactive step to defend our sovereignty and uphold the rule of law."  In addition to requiring disclosure of litigation funding agreements, the law mandates that parties reveal whether a foreign government or its entities are, have been or will be involved in financing such agreements. HB2619 takes effect Nov. 1.