Representative Erick Harris

R

District 39

Hi, I’m Erick Harris and I represent the people of Oklahoma’s 39th District.

representative

Leadership

Assistant Majority Whip

60th Legislature

News & Announcements

Dec 30, 2025
Recent Posts

Harris Bill Strengthens Support for Adoptive Families

A new law taking effect Jan. 1, 2026, will help address one of the biggest financial barriers to adoption by increasing the state tax credit for nonrecurring adoption expenses. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, authored House Bill 2610 , which raises the maximum credit percentage that may be received from 10% to 15% of expenses. Families pursuing adoption often face significant, upfront expenses long before a child is placed in their home, including legal fees, home studies, and travel and agency costs.  "Adoption is an incredibly meaningful way to build a family, but too many Oklahomans are weighed down by out-of-pocket costs that make it harder to say 'yes' when a child needs a home," Harris said. "By increasing the adoption tax credit, we are making a tangible investment in Oklahoma's future and help more children find loving families." Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, was the bill's primary Senate author. "Oklahomans across the state become parents by opening their hearts and homes to children in need," Rader said. "Increasing this tax credit helps support these loving families by easing the financial burden of the adoption process." Oklahomans can begin applying for the increased tax credit in 2027. Adoption expenses incurred on or after Jan. 1, 2026, will qualify for the increased credit amount, now up to 15% of expenses and capped at $3,000 for individuals and $6,000 for joint filers. If adoption expenses occurred prior to this date, the eligible taxpayer would qualify under the lower credit amount, previously 10% of expenses and capped at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for joint filers. 

Oct 29, 2025
Recent Posts

Interim Study Examines Modernization of Child Custody Laws

Reps. Mark Tedford, R-Jenks, and Erick Harris, R-Edmond, hosted an interim study examining potential updates to Oklahoma’s child custody laws to better reflect modern family dynamics and support children’s relationships with both parents.  The study included testimony from family law experts and advocates who discussed the state’s current custody framework, which was designed in an era when fathers typically worked outside the home and mothers stayed home to raise children. Although state law requires courts to act in the “best interest of the child,” it does not presume that equal parenting time serves that interest.  “Oklahoma’s custody laws were written for a time that no longer reflects how families live and work,” Tedford said. “Most parents today share both financial and caregiving responsibilities, yet our laws still tend to favor one parent over the other. Establishing a presumption of joint equal custody would reduce disputes, keep both parents involved, and ensure children maintain meaningful relationships with each parent. States like Kentucky have already seen positive results from this approach. It’s time for Oklahoma to put children and cooperation first.” Harris said, “Joint equal custody doesn’t mean parents can’t make adjustments when necessary. Instead, it means we begin from fairness by ensuring both parents are on equal footing, not from the assumption that one parent is a caregiver and the other is a checkbook. It’s time for Oklahoma to catch up with the modern family and put kids at the center of our custody laws.” Tedford and Harris plan to continue working with lawmakers, family law experts and advocates ahead of the upcoming session to modernize Oklahoma’s custody laws and ensure they reflect the best interests of children and families across the state.

Oct 8, 2025
Recent Posts

Harris Appointed to Uniform Law Commission

Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, has been appointed by House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, to serve on the Uniform Law Commission (ULC), a national organization that works to promote consistency and clarity in state laws across the United States. Commissioners to the ULC, established in 1892, must be members of the bar and are appointed from every state. The ULC drafts and promotes enactment of uniform state law to ensure legal consistency in certain policy areas, such as business transactions, occupational licensing and emerging technologies. "I’m honored to represent Oklahoma on the Uniform Law Commission," Harris said. "This organization plays a critical role in maintaining stability and fairness in our legal system, especially as new challenges arise in areas like technology, privacy and commerce. I look forward to working with fellow commissioners to help shape policies that strengthen our state laws while preserving our constitutional principles." Harris, an attorney with experience in both private legal practice and public service, brings extensive legal and policy experience to the role. He is licensed to practice law in Texas and all Oklahoma state and federal district courts, as well as the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. Hilbert thanked Harris for his willingness to serve, noting his legal expertise and commitment to sound governance. "Representative Harris has demonstrated exceptional judgment and a strong understanding of complex legal issues," Hilbert said. "He will represent Oklahoma well on the Uniform Law Commission and ensure our state’s perspective is part of these important national policy discussions." The ULC meets annually and operates through committees that draft and review proposed uniform acts. These acts are later submitted to state legislatures for adoption, allowing states to modernize and harmonize their legal frameworks without federal intervention.