Representative Danny Sterling

R

District 27

Hi, I'm Danny Sterling and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 27th District.


representative

News & Announcements

Mar 26, 2026
Recent Posts

Sterling Bill to Boost OTA Transparency, Public's Input Moves to Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation, authored Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, aimed at increasing transparency and seeking public input in the planning of turnpike projects passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives today. House Bill 1939 would establish additional oversight, reporting requirements and opportunities for public input in the planning of new turnpike projects. The measure would require the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority to work more closely with local governments, provide additional notice to residents near proposed routes, and hold public meetings on major project decisions in compliance with the state’s Open Meetings Act. Sterling said the bill is designed to ensure Oklahomans have a stronger voice in infrastructure decisions that directly impact their communities. "When you are talking about major projects like turnpikes, the public deserves to be informed and involved from the very beginning," Sterling said. "This bill brings more transparency to the process and makes sure local communities are not left out of decisions that affect their property, their roads and their future." The measure would also require detailed studies before new turnpikes are proposed, including analysis of potential routes, economic impact and environmental considerations. Property owners within a defined area of a proposed project would receive direct notification under the measure. "This is about putting a structure in place that is open to the public and accountable," Sterling said. "We want to make sure these projects are thoroughly vetted and that taxpayers can have a voice during the process every step of the way." Under HB1939, newly authorized turnpike projects would expire if key planning steps are not completed within a set timeframe, helping prevent projects from lingering indefinitely without progress. "This ensures these projects don’t sit on the books without any sort of progress," Sterling said. "If we’re going to move forward with something as significant as these projects are, they need to be done in a timely manner." The measure now advances to the Senate, where Sen. Lisa Standridge, R-Norman is the Senate author.

Oct 25, 2025
Recent Posts

Lawmakers Call OJA Leadership Change a Chance to Refocus

OKLAHOMA CITY – Reps. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton; Emily Gise, R-Oklahoma City; Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh; and Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, released the following joint statement after the resignation of Office of Juvenile Affairs Director Tim Tardibono amid recent concerns at the Central Oklahoma Juvenile Center: “We acknowledge Tim Tardibono’s decision to step down as director of the Office of Juvenile Affairs. This change gives the agency a chance to restore stability and refocus on its core mission of helping Oklahoma’s youth succeed. “New leadership is a positive step but we know that leadership changes alone don’t fix long-term problems. The challenges at COJC, including staff injuries, low morale and daily operational strain, need real, lasting attention. “We’re calling on the interim director and the OJA Board to move quickly and transparently to strengthen the agency. That means ensuring safe staffing levels, rebuilding morale, supporting trauma-informed care and keeping the focus on rehabilitation and youth development. “We welcome Sharon ‘Shel’ Millington as interim director and look forward to working with OJA leadership, state officials and community partners to bring forward meaningful reforms next session. “The work ahead is significant but we share the same goal: to protect staff, support youth and restore public confidence in Oklahoma’s juvenile justice system.”

Oct 14, 2025
Recent Posts

Sterling, Kerbs Respond to Tecumseh School Threat

OKLAHOMA CITY - Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, and Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, today released the following statements regarding the arrest of a Tecumseh High School student accused of making social media threats to harm other students. "This situation is deeply troubling, and hits close to home for our entire community," Sterling said. "I have been working closely with the OSBI, local law enforcement and school officials since the initial arrest. Their quick action not only prevented further tragedy but also uncovered a broader, coordinated effort to target schools nationwide. Situations like this are fluid and must be handled discreetly so that investigators can continue uncovering information that could save more lives. I am incredibly grateful for the swift and thorough work being done to keep our students safe." "As a former educator of 40 years, 16 of those as a principal at Tecumseh High School, I understand the fear and uncertainty that come with threats like this. No parent should have to wonder if their child is safe at school. Going into this next legislative session, we must make school safety, including the discussion of metal detectors and funding to further support them, a top priority. Our students, parents and teachers deserve peace of mind knowing that our schools are safe places to learn and grow," Sterling said. Tecumseh Public Schools cancelled classes Monday and Tuesday. The student has been charged with making terroristic threats, threatening an act of violence, violating the Computer Crimes Act and possessing and distributing obscene material. Kerbs, who represents the district neighboring Tecumseh, emphasized that everyone is working together to ensure the safety of Oklahoma communities. "Shawnee and District 26 stand ready to support our neighbors," Kerbs said. "We are concerned, and we are committed to doing everything possible to provide the safety our schools need." Should local school districts decide to purchase metal detectors, funding is available. Public school boards in Oklahoma can purchase metal detectors through various means, including general funds, the School Security Revolving Fund, grant opportunities and federal resources. School board members are best positioned to determine the needs of their school grounds, and they are elected by local voters to represent those interests.