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Legislation formalizes public-private partnership between Saint Francis Health System and OSU Medical Authority OKLAHOMA CITY - For far too long, northeast Oklahoma has lacked access to a Level I Trauma Center for both adult and pediatric patients. That is now set to change, thanks to critical legislative action and a landmark partnership between Saint Francis Health System and the Oklahoma State University (OSU) Medical Authority. Two key bills —  HB 2784 and HB 2793 — formally establish a public-private partnership mechanism to develop a Level I Trauma Center serving Eastern Oklahoma. Both measures became law on May 29 without the Governor’s signature, marking a major milestone in expanding high-level trauma care in the region. “Minutes matter when lives are on the line,” said House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow. “This partnership is a game-changer for northeast Oklahoma. It strengthens patient safety and ensures access to the highest level of trauma care closer to home. Establishing a Level I Trauma Center for adult and pediatric patients in Tulsa has been a top priority of the House Republican Caucus, and we’re proud to see this effort move forward with broad support.” “Establishing a Level 1 Trauma Center in Tulsa will significantly enhance access to the highest level of emergency care for residents in eastern Oklahoma,” said Senate President Pro Temp Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle. "It ensures that critical trauma services, which are often the difference between life and death, are available close to home, reducing the need for patients to be transported to Oklahoma City. The provisions of these pieces of legislation strengthens patient care in our state while providing training for world class physicians.” “Establishing a Level I Trauma Center in Eastern Oklahoma is not just about today’s emergencies — it’s about building a sustainable, collaborative health system for the future,” said House Majority Leader Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa. “This partnership between OSU and Saint Francis is a model for how we can expand access, improve training, and invest wisely in public health across our state — especially when it comes to delivering high-quality trauma care for both adults and children.” Saint Francis Health System, Oklahoma’s largest locally owned hospital system, has invested heavily in this initiative over the past decade. “As Tulsa’s only locally owned and operated hospital system, the Saint Francis Health System has invested substantial resources over the last decade toward establishing a Level I Trauma Center serving Eastern Oklahoma where a majority of the System's trauma patients are from rural communities,” said Dr. Cliff Robertson, President and CEO of Saint Francis Health System. “Saint Francis seeks to operate a Level I Trauma Center in Tulsa that will enhance life-saving care for adult and pediatric trauma patients and, through a continued partnership with Oklahoma State University, provide training for our state’s next generation of doctors. Saint Francis is in the final stages of preparation for adult Level I Trauma verification by the American College of Surgeons, with a formal survey anticipated in 2025. Following that, the health system will begin the process for pediatric Level I Trauma verification. “We are grateful for the leadership of Speaker Hilbert, Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, and the Legislature, as well as Governor Stitt, for recognizing and supporting this critical need,” Robertson added. The partnership will also enhance academic training and clinical experience for future physicians through OSU’s involvement. “The OSU Medical Authority is proud to participate in a public-private partnership with Saint Francis Health System to enhance both medical education and trauma services across eastern Oklahoma,” said Jay Helm, Chair of the OSU Medical Authority. “Since 2016, Saint Francis has been a vital partner in supporting OSU Medical Center, our teaching hospital in downtown Tulsa. This initiative supports our ability to prepare future physicians while addressing a critical healthcare need in our region.” The initiative also has strong backing from regional business and civic leaders. Mike Neal, President and CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, said: “The Tulsa Regional Chamber strongly supports the establishment of a Level 1 Trauma Center in Tulsa. As the economic engine of eastern Oklahoma and a center of healthcare innovation, our region must be equipped with the highest standard of emergency care. This initiative supports workforce development, research and long-term economic resilience. A Level I Trauma Center represents a vital investment in both the immediate and future well-being of the Tulsa region.” Why It Matters for Oklahomans Faster, coordinated emergency response Saint Francis will serve as the primary destination for the region’s most serious emergencies, improving outcomes through rapid trauma care. Specialists’ available 24/7 Level I designation requires trauma surgeons, neurosurgeons, and other experts to be physically present — not just on call — for critical cases. Better care for rural and pediatric patients Rural and underserved communities in Eastern Oklahoma will benefit from timely, top-tier trauma care closer to home. Physician training and education As a teaching site through OSU, the trauma center will help train future doctors — especially for Oklahoma’s rural health needs. Commitment to excellence Saint Francis will meet and maintain the nation’s highest standards in trauma care, ensuring continuous improvement and accountability.

OKLAHOMA CITY – In a direct response to the governor's veto of a bill, legislative leaders took action to extend the operations of the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, which oversees the licenses of more than 77,000 Oklahomans. Senate Bill 676 , carried in the House by Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, extends the sunset date of the Board by another year, a necessary change after legislation extending the date to 2028 was vetoed.  "Legislators in both chambers united to protect the careers of 77,000 people and stand for the health of four million Oklahomans," Hill said. "While there are many components of the Board that may be better suited for the Oklahoma Department of Health, any shifted responsibilities should come about through an intentional process, not a temper tantrum. Ultimately, I'm proud the Legislature was able to find a solution that allows more time for conversation around changes as we determine the best path forward." House Bill 1030 , by Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, would have extended the Board's sunset date to 2028. The measure was vetoed by Gov. Kevin Stitt on May 14, who wrote in his veto message that the board "should be restructured or consolidated." "Eliminating the Board doesn’t erase its responsibilities. The laws and administrative rules tied to its functions remain in place, and ignoring that would likely create serious consequences. If those responsibilities are to be reassigned, it must be done carefully and deliberately to avoid unnecessary disruption for license holders and small businesses across the state. Widespread support across the state reinforced the importance of extending the Board’s sunset as a sound and necessary decision. Alongside my colleagues, I remain committed to pursuing a thoughtful, long-term solution." SB676 took effect immediately upon being signed into law.

OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill aimed at establishing clear guidelines for carbon capture and storage in Oklahoma has received final legislative approval and will take effect later this year. Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City, co-authored Senate Bill 269 with Sen. Dave Rader to ensure the state maintains regulatory control over carbon sequestration efforts. The measure gives the Oklahoma Corporation Commission exclusive authority over Class VI CO2 injection wells and related storage units. “These companies are willing to invest millions in Oklahoma without asking for tax credits or special incentives from the state,” Luttrell said. “In return, this bill gives them regulatory certainty under Oklahoma’s authority, while also protecting landowners and ensuring long-term accountability.” SB269 was the result of collaboration between the Corporation Commission, the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Farm Bureau and carbon capture companies. It sets requirements for CO2 storage site applications, including ownership of at least 63 percent of the land in the proposed unit, a submitted map of the affected area and notice to surface owners, mineral rights holders and owners of impacted wells. “Senate Bill 269 sets Oklahoma up to lead the nation in the fast-growing carbon capture and sequestration industry, an emerging field that is poised to spur private investment and economic growth in the state,” said Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa. “This law ensures that oversight of this emerging industry stays with the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, not Washington bureaucrats, so rules and regulations addressing this developing sector reflect what’s best for all Oklahomans.” Public notice must be given through two publications, with one issued no fewer than 30 days before the Corporation Commission hearing. No injection may occur without commission authorization, and the agency is directed to issue a certificate of completion within 50 years of injection ending, assuming regulatory compliance and maintained mechanical integrity. The bill also creates the Class VI Carbon Sequestration Storage Facility Revolving Fund. Once a facility deposits $5 million or more into the fund, its fees will pause until expenditures bring the balance below $4 million. The Corporation Commission must provide electronic reports to legislative leaders evaluating the fund’s effectiveness. SB269 goes into effect Nov. 1.

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 1678 is now law after passing both chambers of the Oklahoma Legislature and advancing without the governor’s signature. The bill, authored by Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, updates procedures for how tie votes are handled in Oklahoma elections.  HB1678, originally intended to mandate a runoff in the event of a tie vote, was amended in the Senate before final passage. The new law still relies on a random drawing to determine the winner in tied races but provides more structure and transparency in how those drawings are conducted. “Even though it's not exactly what we wanted in the end, it will be better for drawing up the rules,” Townley said. “This is still a step in the right direction to make sure these decisions are made clearly, publicly and by a process people can understand.” While it maintains the current practice of settling tied elections by lot, it now requires clearer notification protocols, uniform materials, and a standardized method for conducting the drawing in front of witnesses.  “People should feel confident that even in rare cases like a tie, our system is consistent and fair,” Townley said.  Townley proposed the legislation after a 2024 primary race in Carter County was decided by a drawing. The bill is set to take effect November 1, 2025.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Two measures reforming Oklahoma's fines and fees systems have been signed into law. Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, and Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, authored House Bill 1460  and House Bill 1462 . The measures arose from an interim study held in October to understand the current scope of fees that can be charged to Oklahomans through the criminal justice system. The study highlighted how these fees impact individuals and families, the fees' intended use and the collection rate of fees. HB1460 eliminates several fees across Oklahoma’s justice system, as well as strengthens the court fee waiver process. HB1462 directs courts to prioritize payments for restitution to the victim when sentencing. West said these fees disproportionately affect people with limited financial means, leading to some collection rates as low as 25%. Many of these fees cost the state more to collect than they bring in, leaving departments that received little revenue from these fees with an unstable revenue source. "When we refuse to remove these substantial barriers, we continue to punish people well after they've served their time," West said. "These measures will change the lives of Oklahomans and give those who may be struggling a helping hand to break generational cycles. Without the burden of overwhelming fees, people will be better equipped to rebuild their lives and become productive members of society." "Our justice system should never be a trapdoor that keeps people down.," Gollihare said. "With these changes, we’re removing needless financial burdens and making it clear that the focus is on real accountability and giving folks the opportunity to get back on track. This is a win for victims, a win for families, and a win for Oklahoma."  Both bills were signed May 28 and take effect Nov. 1.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks, celebrated the passage of House Bill 2147 , a legislative step aimed at strengthening local governments’ ability to enforce building and safety codes across Oklahoma’s cities and towns. “House Bill 2147 equips our cities with the authority they need to tackle problem properties head-on,” Lay said. “Neglected buildings threaten public health and drag down nearby property values. This bill creates a clear, consistent system for placing and enforcing liens, giving municipalities real power to uphold building and safety standards.”  The bill grants municipalities the ability to respond decisively to code violations, helping reduce fire hazards, unsafe structures and public health risks. It ensures repeat offenders cannot simply ignore code enforcement officers without consequence.  HB2147 also establishes a transparent legal process, requiring notice, hearings and strict timelines. This consistency improves fairness for property owners and helps cities avoid costly litigation.  “When properties are left to decay, the whole neighborhood feels it — home values drop and investment stalls,” Lay said. “This legislation helps cities clear out long-standing eyesores so communities can move forward and attract new growth.”  The measure includes safeguards to protect property owners’ due process rights, ensuring enforcement remains fair and measured.  “With HB2147 now law, our cities have the structure they need to take responsible action while respecting property rights,” Lay concluded. “As it takes effect, we must ensure it's implemented carefully and fairly — so it truly serves as a valuable tool to help communities protect what matters most.”  HB2147 will take effect Nov. 1 and applies to all municipalities, with an exception for owner-occupied properties.

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 1178 became law after Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany, successfully led an override of the governor’s veto. The bill strengthens Oklahoma’s laws regarding service animals, ensuring greater protection for individuals with disabilities. The new law clarifies that only animals trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities qualify as service animals. It also sets penalties for people who misrepresent an animal or pet as a service animal to gain unlawful benefits. Under the law, businesses and public places that ban animals must post clear signs saying service animals are allowed. If a public place asks about a service animal, they must follow federal guidelines. People who try to pass off a non-service animal as a service animal will face misdemeanor charges. “I am proud to see this bill signed into law, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have clear and lawful access to the services they need,” Stark said. “This is a significant step toward protecting the rights of those who rely on service animals for daily support.” Senator David Bullard, R-Durant, carried the bill over in the Senate and worked alongside Rep. Stark to ensure its passage. “This law supports Oklahomans who truly need service animals and prevents local businesses from being overrun with people misrepresenting their pets,” Bullard said. “By making it a misdemeanor to falsely claim a pet is a service animal, we’re creating a deterrent that protects those with legitimate needs from discrimination, harassment and unfair treatment. I’m proud Oklahoma is finally joining 33 other states in protecting the rights of those who depend on these life-saving companions." HB1178 will take effect Nov. 1, 2025. Anyone caught misrepresenting an animal as a service animal could face a misdemeanor charge.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ty Burns, R-Pawnee, released the following statement honoring the life and service of former state Rep. Larry Ferguson, who represented House District 35 for 20 years and served as House minority floor leader. Ferguson was succeeded in the seat by former Reps. Dennis Casey and Rex Duncan before Burns was elected to serve the district. “Larry Ferguson spent two decades representing House District 35 and his leadership left a lasting mark on the Oklahoma House of Representatives,” Burns said. “He was a steady voice in uncertain times, a principled leader who stood firm in his values and a tireless advocate for the people he served.” Burns continued, “Larry led during a period of major change and he helped shape the path for future conservatives in a chamber that looked very different than it does today. He understood the importance of listening to people, building consensus when it mattered and never losing sight of who he worked for — the families back home.” Burns participated in a remembrance ceremony Tuesday at the Oklahoma State Capitol, where he presented the USA flag flown in Ferguson’s honor. “It’s a privilege to represent the same district Larry cared so deeply about,” Burns said. “He helped lay the foundation for the kind of strong, values-driven leadership rural Oklahoma still depends on. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ferguson family. His legacy reflects a life of purpose, dedicated service and a deep love of Oklahoma.”

The Oklahoma House of Representatives held a special presentation Tuesday honoring four exceptional law enforcement officers for their extraordinary bravery, resilience and commitment to public service. The House recognized Officer Caleb Hodam of the Edmond Police Department; Officer Jimmie Reed of the Webbers Falls Police Department; ABLE Agent Alan Davis; and Mayes County Deputy Benjamin Ruppert. Each officer was honored for facing harrowing circumstances in the line of duty and responding with courage and professionalism. Hodam was violently attacked during a routine traffic stop, pepper-sprayed and stabbed multiple times, yet managed to survive and recover. Reed was injured during a traffic stop on March 16, 2025, just two days after graduating from the Oklahoma Police Academy. Despite her injuries, she provided critical information to dispatch while wounded. Davis and Ruppert were recognized for their life-saving actions following the May 25, 2024 tornado in the Osage area. When facing road blocks and debris, they made their way on foot to reach a collapsed home, where they rescued two adults and three children. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, who led the recognition, praised the officers’ actions. "These officers represent the very best of Oklahoma," Harris said. "In the face of violence, disaster and personal injury, they chose to act not out of obligation, but out of an unwavering commitment to protect others. Their courage reminds us why we hold our law enforcement officers in such high regard. We are proud to recognize them and deeply grateful for their sacrifices."