OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. John George, R-Newalla, on Monday secured House passage of House Bill 3263, which would recognize the morel as the Oklahoma state mushroom. 

George said each spring, tens of thousands of Oklahomans take part in the tradition of hunting morel mushrooms, a delicacy known for its unique flavor and difficulty to locate. While many like to post about their finds, they are protective of their hiding places.

“Most years, I am out there with the many Oklahomans who enjoy searching for the morel,” George said. "Some people consider this almost as important as deer hunting in the fall, with families planning their time around this activity in the spring. Naming the morel as the state mushroom is a fun way to recognize this pursuit, but it also could help communities by promoting tourism and educating people about safe mushroom hunting and consumption.” 

House Majority Leader Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa, said he and his stepfather would often hunt these elusive mushrooms together. Lawson amended HB3263 to be titled the “David Beyer Act of 2026” after his stepfather, who passed away two years ago.  

“My stepfather got me started hunting morel mushrooms, and it was something we really enjoyed doing together,” Lawson said. “It’s incredibly special to me and my family that Rep. George allowed me to name this bill in memory of my stepdad. I’m glad some of my family could be here today as we remembered him, and I’m glad the state is recognizing the importance of the morel mushroom to Oklahoma’s culture.” 

George said he hopes this bill will not only serve as a great representation of the morel hunting community but also encourage more people to explore Oklahoma’s diverse landscape. 

HB 3263 passed on the House Floor and is now eligible to for consideration in the Senate where it is authored by Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain.