House Media

A measure that would include certain judges and justices in Oklahoma's open carry law is heading to the governor's desk. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, passed  Senate Bill 742  through the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Wednesday. The measure amends Oklahoma's Self-Defense Act to allow judges of the Court of Civil Appeals and the Court of Criminal Appeals, as well as Oklahoma Supreme Court justices, to carry a firearm into a courthouse. "This bill ensures that appellate judges and justices, like their district court counterparts, have the ability to protect themselves and others in the courthouse if they so choose," Harris said. "It’s a common-sense update that reflects the reality of modern security concerns. I'm thankful for the support of my House colleagues and hope to see this measure signed into law quickly." The bill was proposed in the Senate by Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville. "Our appellate judges and justices make decisions that carry significant consequences, and they deserve the same ability to protect themselves as our district judges," Gollihare said. "Senate Bill 742 is a practical solution that brings consistency to our law and acknowledges the very real security concerns members of the judiciary face. I appreciate Representative Harris’ leadership in the House and our colleagues’ support in moving this measure forward." Having passed the House 77-14, SB742 awaits action by the governor. If signed into law, it would take effect Nov. 1.

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, released the following statement in light of new developments on needed funds at the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services: "The House has had three public meetings with ODMHSAS and their fiscal staff attempting to determine the amount of funding the agency needs to maintain critical services and get through FY25. On March 31, the House was told that the agency would not have a cash flow issue before the end of the legislative session. However, last night I was informed by the Commissioner that they would be unable to meet basic payroll obligations beginning next week. Since that conversation, the date for running out of funds according to the Commissioner has shifted from May 7 to May 21. We know the services the department delivers to Oklahomans are vital and, in many cases, life and death. However, the House has no faith in the current fiscal position of the department. We have taken every step to understand the fiscal needs of this agency but frankly the systemic mismanagement that has been uncovered is appalling. We have asked the Commissioner to meet publicly with the House Select Committee on Mental Health Monday morning to explain under oath how they have reached this latest number. We are out of time and will not accept any more delays. Individuals at ODMHSAS have known about this shortfall for months yet it is the final month of legislative session and we still do not have answers. This is unacceptable. We will get to the bottom of how this happened and who is responsible. The people of Oklahoma deserve better than this dysfunction. Our top priority remains maintaining vital services while also being good stewards of taxpayer dollars." -END-

The Oklahoma House of Representatives has adopted House Resolution 1020, recognizing the last week of September as Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week in Oklahoma. Authored by Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, the resolution seeks to raise awareness of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a rare but devastating neurological disorder that primarily affects individuals between the ages of 45 and 64. West was joined on the House floor by her longtime friend Lezlie Holliday, who was diagnosed with FTD. West said only eight other states have formally recognized this disease. "Frontotemporal dementia is not well known, but its impact on families is life-altering," West said. "I hope this resolution will not only bring comfort and recognition to those who are struggling, but also help accelerate the path to better diagnosis, treatment, and one day, a cure." According to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, FTD places an estimated $120,000 per year on families. This economic burden is largely due to the progressive loss of language, behavior and emotional functioning. There is currently no cure or treatment that slows or stops the disease’s progression. Oklahoma will recognize Lezlie Holliday Frontotemporal Dementia Awareness Week September 21–28, 2025.