News

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore, announced he will host an interim study to review the report from the Secure Oklahoma Now (Not on Our Watch) task force and consider potential supportive legislative action. The recent assassination of Charlie Kirk will be examined as an example to help assess the effectiveness of the tool. The study will focus on the construction and application of the security protocols developed in the task force’s planning and assessment tool, including how the protocols are designed, how they should be applied and which entities are responsible for their use. "It is unfortunate that, in these times, it is necessary to give this much attention to protecting the public and participants in gatherings of all sizes," Lepak said. "I applaud Governor Stitt for creating the task force, and I commend the members for producing a valuable guide that will be useful to any entity as they plan and prepare. I hope this study will highlight their great work product and ensure it is put to good use." The Department of Public Safety (DPS), with the NOW Advisory Council, was tasked with publishing industry-standard security protocols for large events statewide after Gov. Kevin Stitt launched the Secure Oklahoma NOW initiative through Executive Order 2025-02 earlier this year. Kirk’s death is the most recent high-profile event that could help assess and improve Oklahoma’s preparedness against terrorist threats and targeted violence. "While that tragic event was not anticipated at the time this topic was requested, it provides a vivid case study that should prove instructive," he added. "I hope that this study will provide a public platform to promote the use of these protocols for any event where the public will gather." Tim Tipton, Commissioner of Public Safety, will headline the presentation, and representatives from the advisory council that helped develop the protocols will be available for questions during the study. Also attending the study will be representatives from the private sector who previously presented to the task force. Munio Technologies will provide information on their mobile vehicle barrier, which will be on display outside on capitol grounds. The House Public Safety Committee will hear the interim study on Oct. 15 at 9 a.m. in Room 206 at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, is one of the speakers listed for Wrongful Conviction Day ceremonies at the Oklahoma State Capitol, Oct. 2. The event is scheduled to start at 10 a.m. on the south plaza with opening remarks by Emily Barnes, founder of Oklahoma City-based Hooked on Justice, followed by Humphrey. Other speakers include J'Shawna Smith with the Julius Jones Institute and Antoinette Jones, the sister of Julius Jones. Julius Jones was granted clemency from death row by Gov. Kevin Stitt in 2021 but remains incarcerated on a life-without-parole sentence for a murder conviction. He, his family and supporters say he was wrongfully convicted and is innocent of the crime. Former Sen. Connie Johnson will speak with Perry Lott, who was exonerated in 2023 after serving 30 years of a 350-year sentence. Brenda Golden, an attorney and legal advisor for Winston Walters also will speak, as will Stephanie Davis, an advocate for her husband Jeffrey Davis. Supporters say both men were wrongfully convicted. Jake Chappell will play a Native American drum during the event. The master of ceremonies is Deon Devon Osborne, host of the In Depth with Deon podcast. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, was awarded Woman of the Year by WTS Oklahoma, an international organization dedicated to advancing women in the transportation. “I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from WTS Oklahoma,” Miller said. “At its core, mobility means connecting families, communities, and businesses through safe and reliable transportation. That is why I am committed to advancing transportation policy and budget decisions that move our state forward. WTS Oklahoma’s mission is to give women in the field a place to grow, connect, and lead. Miller emphasized, “Supporting women in transportation is vital to attracting new talent, fostering career growth and securing the future strength of our infrastructure. I am grateful to be part of that effort.” Miller represents House District 82, which includes northwest Oklahoma City, west Edmond and Deer Creek. Since her election in 2018, she has become a leading voice on transportation, serving as chair of the House Appropriations and Budget Subcommittee on Transportation. She was recently selected as co-chair of the National Conference of State Legislatures Transportation Standing Committee for a two-year term. She also has a strong background in military and aviation issues, work with the Oklahoma National Guard. In the Legislature, she has prioritized transportation funding, workforce development and the modernization of Oklahoma’s infrastructure, with her efforts spanning surface transportation, aerospace and emerging technologies to position the state for the future of transportation. Founded in 1977, WTS International has grown to more than 8,000 members worldwide with chapters in major cities including Oklahoma. The organization provides networking, professional development and recognition for women shaping the future of transportation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oklahoma House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, along with members of the Oklahoma House and Senate Republican Caucuses were invited to hear directly from members of President Trump’s Cabinet and other federal officials about policies impacting Oklahoma. This legislative leadership visit to Washington, D.C., organized in partnership with the White House Office of Governmental Affairs, allowed the delegation to participate in high-level meetings with Secretary Kristi Noem, Secretary Scott Turner, Secretary Brooke Rollins, Secretary Doug Collins, Deputy Administrator Bill Briggs of the Small Business Administration and U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin. Speaker Hilbert emphasized the importance of ensuring Oklahoma voices are heard in Washington. “This was an invaluable opportunity for our state leaders to engage directly with federal decision-makers who influence issues that affect Oklahoma families, businesses and communities every day," said Speaker Hilbert. “We are committed to ensuring Oklahoma’s voice is heard at the national level, particularly on critical issues such as energy, agriculture, education and healthcare." To make the most of the visit, the delegation hosted interactive learning sessions in advance of the White House meetings. Presentations included: Missi Tessier, Cogent Strategies Jim Hobart, Public Opinion Strategies Erin Covey, Cook Political Report Matt Smith, CPAC “It was an honor to join my legislative colleagues in Washington, D.C. for productive discussions on how we can better partner on a state level with the Congressional delegation and President Trump’s administration,” said Senate Pro Tem Paxton said. “These meetings provided an important opportunity to advocate for the needs of Oklahomans, build relationships and ensure our state’s voice is heard on issues that directly impact our citizens. I appreciate everyone who took the time to meet with us and hosted us. I look forward to future conversations and putting what we learned into action.” The following day, Senator Mullin arranged a unique opportunity for a handful of members to meet Vice President J.D. Vance at Joint Base Andrews prior to his departure on Air Force Two. While the meeting was informal, Speaker Hilbert described it as deeply significant. “Standing on the runway at Joint Base Andrews and having the chance to meet Vice President Vance just before his departure was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Hilbert said. “It was an opportunity not only to thank him for his service but also to highlight Oklahoma’s leadership. These personal connections matter, and they strengthen our ability to advocate for the people we serve.” Among those who were able to meet with the Vice President was Majority Floor Leader Josh West. “As Oklahoma legislators, it’s critical that we remain in close contact with our federal representatives. After Oklahoma voters overwhelmingly re-elected President Trump, it was a blessing to meet with his team at the White House. I really want to thank Senator Mullin for giving Oklahoma this platform, and for making sure we got a chance to meet with the Vice President of the United States. It was a great trip,” said West. Throughout the trip, legislators also attended U.S. Capitol tours and policy briefings tailored to their committee and district interests, including: U.S. Department of Agriculture Federal Oil and Gas Issues American Hospital Association U.S. Department of Health & Human Services – Mississippi Reading Miracle with Deputy Assistant Secretary Laurie Todd-Smith U.S. Environmental Protection Agency U.S. Department of Education U.S. Department of Commerce "We are committed to bringing back ideas, information and solutions that can strengthen Oklahoma. This visit allowed our caucus to build relationships, gain insights and ensure that our state is well-represented in national conversations. I would like to especially thank our White House point-of-contact, Chase Wilson and Senator Mullin for all of the hard work they put in to making this trip a success.” said Hilbert. The trip was open to all members of the Oklahoma Republican Caucuses from both chambers of the Legislature.

OKLAHOMA CITY- Today, House Speaker Kyle Hilbert announced the updated committee assignments for the second session of the 60th Legislature following changes in House membership:   Appropriations and Budget Committee:  Chair – Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon; Vice Chair - Rep. John Kane, R-Bartlesville Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid Rep. Josh Cantrell, R-Kingston Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City Rep. Robert Manger, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton Rep. John Pfeiffer, R-Mulhall Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh Rep. Preston Stinson, R-Edmond Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan Rep. Josh West, R-Grove Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater   A&B Education Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid; Vice Chair – Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby Rep. Ronny Johns, R-Ada Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa A&B Finance Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee; Vice Chair – Rep. Ryan Eaves, R-Atoka Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore Rep. Cody Maynard, R-Durant Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa A&B General Government Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan; Vice Chair – Rep. Eric Roberts, R- Oklahoma City Rep. Chris Kannady, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Tom Gann, R-Inola Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon Rep. Max Wolfley, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Mickey Dollens, D-Oklahoma City A&B Health Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Preston Stinson, R-Edmond; Vice Chair – Rep. TJ Marti, R-Tulsa Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay Rep. Chris Sneed, R-Fort Gibson Rep. Ajay Pittman, D-Oklahoma City A&B Human Services Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton; Vice Chair – Rep. Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole Rep. Ellen Pogemiller, D-Oklahoma City A&B Judiciary Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh; Vice Chair – Rep. Erick W. Harris, R-Edmond Rep. Bob Ed Culver, R-Tahlequah Rep. Collin Duel, R-Guthrie Rep. Justin JJ Humphrey, R-Lane Rep. Molly Jenkins, R-Coyle Rep. Rande Worthen, R-Lawton Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman Rep. Aletia Timmons, D-Oklahoma City A&B Natural Resources Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton; Vice Chair – Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee Rep. Rob Hall, R-Tulsa Rep. Kenton Patzkowsky, R-Balko Rep. Jim Shaw, R-Chandler Rep. David Smith, R-McAlester Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore Rep. Jonathan Wilk, R-Goldsby Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa A&B Public Safety Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow; Vice Chair – Rep. Tim Turner, R-Kinta Rep. Stacy Jo Adams, R-Duncan Rep. John George, R-Newalla Rep. David Hardin, R-Stilwell Rep. Mike Kelley, R-Yukon Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa Rep. Ronald Stewart, D-Tulsa A&B Select Agencies Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City; Vice Chair – Rep. Clay Staires, R-Skiatook Rep. Rusty Cornwell, R-Vinita Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa Rep. Amanda Clinton, D-Tulsa A&B Transportation Subcommittee:  Chair – Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond; Vice Chair – Rep. Jason Blair, R-Moore Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City Rep. Josh Cantrell, R-Kingston Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Yukon Rep. Eddy Dempsey, R-Valliant Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman   Commerce and Economic Development Oversight:  Chair – Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang; Vice Chair – Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa Rep. Stacy Jo Adams, R-Duncan Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby Rep. Tom Gann, R-Inola Rep. Rob Hall, R-Tulsa Rep. Ronny Johns, R-Ada Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa Rep. Cody Maynard, R-Durant Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond Rep. Chris Sneed, R-Fort Gibson Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore Rep. Jonathan Wilk, R-Goldsby Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman  Business Committee:  Chair – Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby; Vice Chair – Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow Rep. Ryan Eaves, R-Atoka Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee Rep. Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa Government Modernization and Technology Committee:  Chair – Rep. Cody Maynard, R-Durant; Vice Chair – Rep. Rob Hall, R-Tulsa Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon Rep. Jim Shaw, R-Chandler Rep. David Smith, R-McAlester Rep. Josh West, R-Grove Rep. Arturo Alonzo-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Ronald Stewart, D-Tulsa Insurance Committee:  Chair – Rep. Chris Sneed, R-Fort Gibson; Vice Chair – Rep. Stacy Jo Adams, R-Duncan Rep. T.J. Marti, R-Tulsa Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa Rep. Josh West, R-Grove Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City Tourism Committee:  Chair – Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore; Vice Chair – Rep. Molly Jenkins, R- Coyle Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon Rep. Josh Cantrell, R-Kingston Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee Rep. Ajay Pittman, D-Oklahoma City Transportation Committee:  Chair – Rep. Ronny Johns, R-Ada; Vice Chair – Rep. Jonathan Wilk, R-Goldsby Rep. Josh Cantrell, R-Kingston Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Yukon Rep. Eddy Dempsey, R-Valliant Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee Rep. Kenton Patzkowsky, R-Balko Rep. Clay Staires, R-Skiatook Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman   Education Oversight:  Chair – Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee; Vice Chair – Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin Rep. John Kane, R-Bartlesville Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Max Wolfley, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa Common Education Committee:  Chair – Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber; Vice Chair – Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid Rep. Rob Hall, R-Tulsa Rep. Cody Maynard, R-Durant Rep. Molly Jenkins, R-Coyle Rep. Ronny Johns, R-Ada Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa Rep. Ellen Pogemiller, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman Postsecondary Education Committee:  Chair – Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin; Vice Chair – Rep. Max Wolfley, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami Rep. Ronny Johns, R-Ada Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater   Government Oversight:  Chair – Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore; Vice Chair – Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Yukon Rep. Eddy Dempsey, R-Valliant Rep. Mike Kelley, R-Yukon Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City Rep. Stan May, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland Rep. Eric Roberts, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Jim Shaw, R-Chandler Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City County and Municipal Government Committee:  Chair – Rep. Eddy Dempsey, R-Valliant; Vice Chair – Rep. Mike Kelley, R-Yukon Rep. Jason Blair, R-Moore Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow Rep. Tim Turner, R-Kinta Elections and Ethics Committee:  Chair – Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland; Vice Chair – Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Yukon Rep. Molly Jenkins, R-Coyle Rep. Clay Staires, R-Skiatook Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole Rep. Mickey Dollens, D-Oklahoma City General Government Committee:  Chair – Rep. Eric Roberts, R-Oklahoma City; Vice Chair – Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan Rep. Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City Banking, Financial Services and Pensions Committee:  Chair – Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore; Vice Chair – Rep. Stan May, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Ryan Eaves, R-Atoka Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa State Powers Committee:  Chair – Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon; Vice Chair – Rep. Jim Shaw, R-Chandler Rep. Tom Gann, R-Inola Rep. Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener Rep. Amanda Clinton, D-Tulsajudi Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa   Health and Human Services Oversight Committee:  Chair – Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee; Vice Chair – Rep. Josh Cantrell, R-Kingston Rep. Bob Ed Culver, R-Tahlequah Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa Rep. T.J. Marti, R-Tulsa Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay Rep. David Smith, R-McAlester Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany Rep. Preston Stinson, R-Edmond Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater Public Health Committee:  Chair – Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay; Vice Chair – Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore Rep. Ellen Pogemiller, D-Oklahoma City Alcohol, Tobacco and Controlled Substances Committee:  Chair – Rep. TJ Marti, R-Tulsa; Vice Chair – Rep. Bob Ed Culver, R-Tahlequah Rep. Rusty Cornwell, R-Vinita Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee Rep. Tom Gann, R-Inola Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah Rep. Mickey Dollens, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman Children, Youth and Family Services Committee:  Chair – Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole; Vice Chair – Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton Rep. Emily Gise, E-Oklahoma City Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa Veteran and Military Affairs Committee:  Chair – Rep. David Smith, R-McAlester; Vice Chair - Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby Rep. Robert Manger, R, Oklahoma City Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon Rep. Max Wolfley, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Ellen Pogemiller, D-Oklahoma City   Energy and Natural Resources Oversight Committee:  Chair – Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow; Vice Chair – Rep. John Pfeiffer, R-Mulhall Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon Rep. Mark Chapman, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Rusty Cornwell, R-Vinita Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene Rep. John George, R-Newalla Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City Rep. Kenton Patzkowsky, R-Balko Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener Rep. Mickey Dollens, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman Rep. Ajay Pittman, D-Oklahoma City Agriculture Committee:  Chair – Rep. Kenton Patzkowsky, R-Balko; Vice Chair – Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener Rep. David Hardin, R-Stilwell Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay Rep. Ajay Pittman, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Trish Ranson, D-Stillwater Utilities Committee:  Chair – Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene; Vice Chair – Rep. Mark Chapman, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Jason Blair, R-Moore Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks Rep. John Pfeiffer, R-Mulhall Rep. Tim Turner, R-Kinta Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman Wildlife Committee:  Chair – Rep. John George, R-Newalla; Vice Chair – Rep. Rusty Cornwell, R-Vinita Rep. Chris Kannady, R-Oklahoma City Rep. John Kane, R-Bartlesville Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso Rep. Jonathan Wilk, R-Goldsby Rep. Ronald Stewart, D-Tulsa Rep. Aletia Timmons, D-Oklahoma City Energy Committee:  Chair – Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City; Vice Chair – Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber Rep. Stan May, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Eric Roberts, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa   Judiciary and Public Safety Oversight Committee:  Chair – Rep. Robert Manger, R-Oklahoma City; Vice Chair – Rep. Collin Duel, R-Guthrie Rep. Bob Ed Culver, R-Tahlequah Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow Rep. David Hardin, R-Stilwell Rep. Erick W. Harris, R-Edmond Rep. Justin JJ Humphrey, R-Lane Rep. John Kane, R-Bartlesville Rep. Chris Kannady, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh Rep. Rande Worthen, R-Lawton Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa Civil Judiciary Committee:  Chair – Rep. Collin Duel, R-Guthrie; Vice Chair – Rep. Bob Ed Culver, R-Tahlequah Rep. Chris Kannady, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond Rep. Chris Sneed, R-Fort Gibson Rep. Preston Stinson, R-Edmond Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa Criminal Judiciary Committee:  Chair – Rep. Rande Worthen, R-Lawton; Vice Chair – Rep. Erick W. Harris, R-Edmond Rep. Stacy Jo Adams, R-Duncan Rep. Robert Manger, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland Rep. Amanda Clinton, D-Tulsa Public Safety Committee:  Chair – Rep. David Hardin, R-Stilwell; Vice Chair – Rep. Justin JJ Humphrey, R-Lane Rep. Mark Chapman, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Mike Kelley, R-Yukon Rep. Stan May, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Tim Turner, R-Kinta Rep. Ronald Stewart, D-Tulsa Rep. Aletia Timmons, D-Oklahoma City   Administrative Rules Committee:  Chair – Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus; Vice Chair – Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso Rep. Jason Blair, R-Moore Rep. Mark Chapman, R-Broken Arrow Rep. Collin Duel, R-Guthrie Rep. Ryan Eaves, R-Atoka Rep. Cody Maynard, R-Durant Rep. Clay Staires, R-Skiatook Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore Rep. Rande Worthen, R-Lawton Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa Rep. Aletia Timmons, D-Oklahoma City Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa   Rules Committee:  Chair – Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond; Vice Chair – Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City Rep. John George, R-Newalla Rep. Erick W. Harris, R-Edmond Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa Rep. John Pfeiffer, R-Mulhall Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Oklahoma City   Joint Committees LOFT:  Co-Chair – Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa Rep. John Kane, R-Bartlesville Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa LEAD:  Co-Chair – Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow Rep. Trey Caldwell, R-Faxon Rep. John Kane, R-Bartlesville Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond Rep. Suzanne Schreiber, D-Tulsa State Tribal Relations:  Chair – Rep. Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee Rep. Steve Bashore, R-Miami Rep. Mike Osburn, R-Edmond Rep. Ajay Pittman, D-Oklahoma City Rep. Josh West, R-Grove 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Former educators and members of the Oklahoma House Democratic Caucus released the following statements after the announcement that the Oklahoma State Superintendent is resigning from his post. “We are facing some of the most difficult challenges in public education in Oklahoma, and as per usual, the State Superintendent continues to keep the attention on him—even as he announces his resignation. We must remember that our 50th in the nation ranking for public education did not happen overnight or by Ryan Walters alone. Republicans have been in charge of state government for nearly two decades prioritizing tax cuts for the wealthiest and corporations and making massive investments in private school vouchers with our public tax dollars. The result has been a lack of investment in public education which has resulted in larger class sizes and low teacher pay. House Democrats made six calls to Republican legislative leaders to hold Ryan Walters accountable to no avail, and now, he is leaving office without answering any questions that Oklahomans have demanded. It is now time for us to get away from the distractions and put our focus on our students, teachers, and families—we have plenty of work to do, and it will take all of us.”  — Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City “Today brings a new beginning and opportunity for Oklahoma schools and our children. We have a lot of work to do to heal the damage of the last several years. That begins with renewed funding, and a sincere plea:  “Teachers, stick with us. Stay. If you’ve left, please come back. We need you, because Oklahoma kids deserve the best.”  — Oklahoma House Democratic Assistant Leader Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa “Superintendent Walters brought chaos and polarization to the state’s largest appropriated agency. Oklahoma Democrats were the first to call for action to rein in his reckless administration of public schools for 700,000 Oklahomans. The GOP did nothing as we fell to 50th in education. We are glad to see his resignation. Good riddance.”  — Rep. John Waldron, D-Tulsa “While it’s wonderful to wake up knowing the specter of the most incompetent state superintendent in Oklahoma history has vanished, what hasn’t vanished is his agenda. Our opposition was never solely about the superintendent, it’s the incompetence, the lies, the waste of taxpayer dollars, and the rhetoric. The work to protect our public schools, to listen to parents, to support our teachers, to provide transparency of our tax dollars continues, always!”  — Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman “While Walters announced his resignation on Fox News, the Governor’s office has not yet confirmed when or if it will take effect. Like many in my district, I am glad to finally see Walters put students first by resigning as superintendent. Unfortunately, his resignation won't magically fix all the harm he has done. Nor will it erase the failure of the Legislature to hold elected officials accountable and provide oversight of state agencies. His replacement will also be appointed by Governor Stitt, the same person who appointed him Secretary of Education in 2020. Whether you are celebrating his departure or not, this is the time for the people of Oklahoma to stay engaged. I encourage all Oklahomans to continue attending state and local board meetings as well as being in communication with legislators. Oklahoma’s students deserve better, and real change will only come when we demand it together.”   — Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa -END-

OKLAHOMA CITY — Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, has been appointed to serve as Vice Chair of the National Conference of State Legislatures’ (NCSL) Labor and Economic Development Standing Committee for a two-year term. The committee brings together legislators from all 50 states to discuss challenges facing today’s workforce, share ideas to support small businesses and explore ways to grow local economies. As vice chair, Townley will play a role in guiding conversations that shape policies not only in Oklahoma, but across the country.  Townley, who has long championed rural development and opportunities for working families, said she is eager to bring Oklahoma’s voice to the table.  "This is such an exciting opportunity to represent Oklahoma on a national level," Townley said. "Our state has so many hardworking people and strong communities and I want to make sure their needs and ideas are part of these conversations. My goal is to bring back fresh ideas that help our local businesses grow and give more Oklahomans a chance to succeed."  NCSL’s Labor and Economic Development Standing Committee focuses on policies tied to employment, job creation, workforce training and economic growth.  "I’m looking forward to learning from other states while also sharing what makes Oklahoma unique," Townley said. "At the end of the day, this work is about people, helping families, supporting businesses and building communities that can thrive for generations."  Townley said she is honored to represent Oklahoma and will continue working to strengthen economic opportunities both locally and nationally.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Danny Williams, R-Seminole, hosted an interim study this week at the state Capitol to explore how a unified statewide family court system could help improve outcomes for Oklahoma children in deprived cases. The study brought together child advocates, lawmakers from across the state and representatives from Texas to examine disparities in Oklahoma’s current family court system. The group discussed how specialized courts, like those operating in other states, could better serve children and families in the state’s care. "Oklahoma has an opportunity to strengthen how we handle cases involving our most vulnerable children,” Williams said. "By having judges who specialize in family and child welfare cases, we can make sure these matters are heard by someone who truly understands the system and the trauma many of these children have faced. We owe it to these children to build a court system that works for them." The study reviewed models from other states, including the Texas Child Protection Courts (CPCs), which are dedicated solely to handling Child Protective Services cases. CPC judges undergo specialized training in foster care, youth trauma and CPS procedures, allowing them to manage caseloads more effectively. Texas began with four CPCs funded through a federal grant and now operates 31 courts managing more than half of the state’s CPS dockets which are now funded by the Texas Legislature through General Revenue. CPC judges are appointed by regional presiding judges and serve as either associated judges or former judges. Their decisions are subject to de novo review by elected judges, ensuring a fresh look at each case if appealed. Much like Oklahoma’s Family Representation Advocacy Act, passed in 2023, which created the Office of Family Representation to ensure high-quality legal representation for children and indigent parents in deprived actions, a unified family court system would focus on consistency and expertise. Under such a system, judges would be assigned solely to family and child advocacy cases within their districts. Williams said Oklahoma already has part of the structure in place, which could make the transition to a specialized model possible. "We have the framework if we decide to go this route," Williams said. "It would just take some moving of the pieces around a bit to make it work for Oklahoma." Oklahoma’s 22nd Judicial District Judge Brett Butner, who participated in the study, said it is important to review and address Oklahoma's long-standing challenges in its child welfare system. "I am grateful for Representative Williams' invitation to discuss the difficult issues that judges navigate in our current child welfare system," Butner said. "It is exciting to see Oklahoma's leaders explore concepts and launch innovative programs, like the Office of Family Representation, to support families and strengthen our current system." The Oklahoma Office of Family Representation is expanding to Seminole County, located within the 22nd Judicial District, on Feb. 1, 2026. No formal legislation has been filed yet regarding a unified family court system, but Williams said he hopes the study will serve as a foundation for future policy discussions.

Rep. Nick Archer, R-Elk City, was elected vice chair of The Energy Council, an international nonpartisan organization focused on energy policy. Archer was elected vice chair during the Council's annual meeting in Anchorage, Alaska. He will step into the chairmanship in 2026-2027. "I’m honored to serve as vice chair of The Energy Council," Archer said. "Oklahoma has long been a leader in powering our nation, and energy remains a top industry in our state. I look forward to working with colleagues from across the country and beyond to promote an energy infrastructure that strengthens our economy, ensures reliability and secures America’s energy future." He has served on the Council's Executive Committee since February and has been a member of the Council since 2021. In the Oklahoma House, Archer chairs the House Energy Committee and is a member of the House Energy and Natural Resources Oversight Committee. He has represented House District 55 in western Oklahoma since 2022 and previously served as mayor of Elk City.