Conference Committees

OKLAHOMA CITY — Rep. Stacy Jo Adams, R-Duncan, filed a concurrent resolution recognizing Oklahoma native Chuck Norris for a lifetime of achievement and contributions to the state and nation. The measure was heard on the House floor Monday and adopted. "Chuck Norris is one of our own, and his story is something Oklahomans can really take pride in," Adams said. "From serving our country to becoming a global name in martial arts and entertainment, he’s always carried himself with strength and character. This resolution is just a small way to recognize all he’s accomplished and the example he continues to set." House Concurrent Resolution 1021 honors Norris, who was born March 10, 1940, in Ryan, for his impact as a serviceman, martial artist, actor and philanthropist. Norris served in the United States Air Force, where he first demonstrated the discipline and commitment that would define his career. He later became a world-renowned martial artist, earning multiple championships and helping bring martial arts into the national spotlight. He went on to achieve international recognition as an actor, starring in numerous films and the television series "Walker, Texas Ranger," becoming a cultural figure known across generations. In addition to his work in entertainment, Norris has supported numerous philanthropic efforts, including programs focused on youth development and character education. Through HCR1021, the Oklahoma Legislature formally honors Norris' contributions to the arts, athletics and charitable causes. The measure now moves to the Senate for further consideration, where Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, is the Senate author.

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation by Rep. Ryan Eaves, R-Atoka, to study the feasibility of three-year bachelor’s degree programs.  House Bill 3315 passed the House with a vote of 83-10 and now moves to the Senate for further consideration. The measure directs the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to examine whether bachelor’s degree programs could be completed in three years, or 90 credit hours, and to report their findings to the governor and legislative leaders by July 1, 2027.  Eaves said the proposal takes a careful approach before considering any potential changes.  "This lets us take a real look at whether a three-year degree actually works," Eaves said. "We’ve got to make sure it holds up academically and meets accreditation standards before we go any further." The study will evaluate potential adjustments to course requirements and credit hours, as well as consider impacts on accreditation standards and how three-year degrees would be viewed by employers and graduate programs. The measure is not expected to have a negative fiscal impact on the state budget.  HB3315 now advances to the Senate for further consideration.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation authored by Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah, to support first responders who suffer serious medical emergencies after strenuous duty work passed the Oklahoma House floor today. House Bill 4260 would allow firefighters, peace officers and emergency medical technicians to receive workers’ compensation benefits if they experience a heart attack or stroke within eight hours of completing a shift involving strenuous emergency response activity or training. "I am glad my colleagues understand the importance of this bill and that when our first responders run toward danger, they put more than their safety on the line," Hays said. "The physical strain of fighting a fire, pursuing a suspect or responding to a medical emergency can take a serious toll on the heart. This bill simply recognizes that reality and ensures they are not left fighting for benefits after giving everything on the job." Under the bill, qualifying incidents must occur following activities such as fire suppression, rescue operations, law enforcement response, hazardous material incidents or emergency medical care, as well as related training exercises. The legislation would apply to first responders employed by the state or a political subdivision and does not include clerical or administrative duties. HB4260 also includes a sunset date of Nov. 1, 2031, to allow lawmakers to review the fiscal impact of the policy. If signed into law, the measure would take effect Nov. 1. The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration, where Sen. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, is the Senate author.