Representative Chris Banning

R

District 24

Hi, I'm Chris Banning and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 24th District.


representative

Leadership

Assistant Majority Whip

60th Legislature

News & Announcements

Oct 15, 2026
Recent Posts

Hildebrant, Banning Applaud VA's Record-Setting Claims Processing

Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa, chair of the Oklahoma Veterans and Public Safety Caucus, and Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, an Air Force veteran, applauded the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement that it processed a record-high 3,111,399 disability compensation claims in Fiscal Year 2026. "Veterans should not have to face unnecessary delays or barriers when seeking the benefits and care they have earned through their service, sacrifices, and dedication to our nation. We are grateful for all they and their families have given in defense of our freedoms," the lawmakers said. "This reduction in the claims backlog means more veterans and their families are receiving the timely support they deserve. Recognizing and honoring their sacrifices with meaningful, dependable service is significant progress for veterans across Oklahoma and the nation. "We deeply appreciate the men and women at the VA who are diligently working to serve those who have served our country. We will continue supporting efforts that make it easier for Oklahoma veterans and their families to access the benefits, health care, and services they have earned through their sacrifice and commitment to our nation." The VA reported that its FY2026 claims total exceeded the previous record of 3,001,734 claims set in FY2025. The department also reported that its benefits backlog has been reduced by more than 70%, while claims-processing accuracy has reached 94%, the highest level in two years.

Jul 9, 2026
Recent Posts

Banning Requests Economic Development Study

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, has filed an interim study request to continue work previously led by Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, examining Oklahoma's innovation economy, workforce and economic development policies. The proposed study would review whether state laws, incentives and policy efforts are helping grow businesses, strengthen communities and create long-term opportunities for Oklahomans across the state. "Chairman Hill has done important work on this issue for several years and I appreciate the foundation he has laid," Banning said. "As we continue looking at economic development policy, we need to be certain the laws we pass and the tools we put in place are actually benefiting Oklahoma families." Hill hosted his eighth annual interim study on Oklahoma's innovation economy and workforce last fall. The study brought together state leaders, industry experts, agency officials and innovators to discuss the challenges facing Oklahoma businesses and opportunities to strengthen the state's economy. Banning said the next step is to build on that work by taking closer look at what is working and where the barriers remain. "Oklahoma's future will not be built by accident—it will be built through intentional leadership, innovation and a commitment to creating opportunities in every community," Hill said. "I greatly appreciate Rep. Banning's willingness to continue this important work and build upon the foundation established through these annual interim studies. By bringing together leaders from numerous industries, we can better identify barriers, strengthen our workforce and find solutions to ensure Oklahoma remains a place where businesses grow, and people thrive."  If approved, the study would be conducted later this year. 

May 18, 2026
Recent Posts

Talyn Bain Act Signed Into Law to Improve School Zone Safety

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, and Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, today commented on the signing of House Bill 2979 , known as the “Talyn Bain Act,” a measure to improve safety for students by establishing lower speed limits on certain highways near schools. The legislation is named in honor of Talyn Bain, a nine-year-old Glenpool student who lost his life in a crash near his school in 2025. Banning, the House author of the bill, said he hopes the bill will help prevent similar accidents. "House Bill 2979 is in honor of a young man we lost too soon, Talyn Bain," Banning said. "This legislation ensures we’re addressing dangerous situations where high-speed highways run too close to schools. If we can prevent even one tragedy like this from happening again, then this effort is worth it." Talyn’s family said they are grateful the legislation will help protect other Oklahoma children and families. "The Talyn Bain Act becoming law means Talyn's name will forever stand for protecting children across Oklahoma," the Bain family said. "While we would give anything to have our son back, we are incredibly grateful that his life is creating change that could help save other families from this kind of heartbreak. "Thank you to Representative Chris Banning, Senator Gollihare and everyone who stood beside us, believed in this bill and helped make this happen. Talyn was so deeply loved, and we will continue doing everything we can to make sure his life matters far louder than the tragedy that took him from us." HB2979 directs the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to create 45 mph school zones on portions of state highways upon request from a local jurisdiction, provided specific safety conditions are met. These include highways with speed limits of 65 mph or higher that run within 150 yards of a school and lack a direct exit ramp into the school zone. The measure allows local communities to partner with ODOT to identify qualifying locations and implement the reduced speed zones. The agency has identified approximately 14 locations statewide that meet the criteria outlined in the bill. "This law is about protecting our children and making sure no family has to endure the kind of loss the Bain family has experienced," Gollihare said. "By slowing traffic in high-risk areas near schools, we are taking a commonsense step to improve safety and potentially save lives. Talyn’s legacy will be one of lasting impact, helping safeguard students across Oklahoma for years to come. This was a collaborative effort and I’m grateful to Representative Banning and all those who worked to move this bill forward. I appreciate the governor’s support in signing it into law." Under the law, ODOT will install appropriate signage, while local jurisdictions will be responsible for ongoing maintenance and operational costs. The Tayln Bain Act will take effect Nov. 1, 2026.