Representative Chad Caldwell

R

District 40

Hi, I'm Chad Caldwell and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 40th District.


representative

News & Announcements

Apr 28, 2026
Recent Posts

House Sends Bill to Permanently Ban Cell Phones in Schools to Governor's Desk

Today the Oklahoma House sent a bill to the Governor's desk that requires school districts to permanently adopt a policy prohibiting students from using cell phones on campus during the school day. “Bell to Bell, No Cell” was originally introduced as pilot legislation in 2025, requiring Oklahoma school boards to adopt policies prohibiting cell phone use on campus during the school day. Feedback from teachers, students and parents following the pilot program was overwhelmingly positive, prompting legislators to advance permanent legislation establishing the cell phone ban in state statute. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, emphasized that the policy, paired with strong literacy reforms passed this year, represents an important step forward for Oklahoma schools. “This legislation is one of the most meaningful bills written during my time in the House,” said Hilbert. “I’ve heard from both parents and teachers who are grateful for this reform. Hallways are loud again, students are playing Uno at lunch, and they’re actually interacting with one another. This legislation permanently allows kids to be kids, and our teachers to teach in our classrooms.” The legislation requires that any policy prohibiting cell phone use must also include a provision for emergency use, including items used for medical issues. The bill also allows local school districts flexibility in how they implement the policy. “As a father of three, I knew how important this legislation would be in our schools and for our kids. I have worked for the last 12 years in the House on a lot of important legislation that has had a meaningful impact on schools, but making this ban permanent I think will tremendously improve the academic focus in our classrooms for years to come,” said House Education Appropriations Chairman Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, and author of the bill.  “Bell to Bell, No Cell has worked wonders in classrooms across Oklahoma,” said Senator Ally Seifried, R- Claremore, and senate author of the bill. “With fewer distractions from cellphones and social media, students are engaged and focused on their schoolwork again. Making this permanent is the right move for Oklahoma kids, and I look forward to seeing academic outcomes continue to improve the longer this policy is on the books.” 

Apr 24, 2026
Recent Posts

Enid Area Lawmakers Comment on Tornado Damage

OKLAHOMA CITY – State lawmakers who represent the Enid area this morning issued the following statement after a powerful tornado struck Enid and Vance Air Force Base. Reports show at least 10 injured and homes destroyed in a neighborhood on the south side of Enid. Reps. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene, Carl Newton, R-Cherokee, and John Pfeiffer, R-Orlanda, all represent a portion of Enid or the surrounding area.  "We are praying for those affected and thankful there are no casualties, according to early reports," the lawmakers said in a joint statement. "We know, however, that the loss of a home or damage to a business can be life-altering. We also know that Oklahomans will rise to help their neighbors and there will be support in the days, weeks and months ahead as recovery takes place. We're thankful to all of our courageous first responders and to city, county and state personnel who worked tirelessly overnight to account for everyone. We're grateful, as well, to our amazing meteorologists who issued early warnings and alerts and who stay on the air through these storms to keep Oklahomans safe and informed. Their actions likely saved countless lives."  The lawmakers said there are reports of damage to Vance Air Force Base, including to perimeter structures and downed electrical lines, which is causing a loss of water supply. OG&E crews worked after the storm to restore service. The Grey Ridge Estate, directly east of the base and across U.S. Highway 81 was largely destroyed. Local emergency medical personnel searched and recovered all residents, and injuries were not serious, according to reports. The hope is for residents to be allowed back into the area today to begin to recover personal property. The representatives also report that linemen were out as soon as possible after the tornado to begin to restore service and minimize additional loss. It is reported the governor will tour the damaged area this afternoon along with city and county officials.

Apr 9, 2026
Recent Posts

House Passes Legislation to Raise Cap on Parental Choice Tax Credit Act

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives today secured passage off the House floor of House Bill 3705, which would give more students the ability to attend the school of their choice by increasing the Parental Choice Tax Credit cap to $275 million. “Our tax dollars should follow Oklahoma students to the school that best meets their needs,” said Chad Caldwell, R-Enid, who presented the bill on the House floor Thursday. “Oklahoma families clearly value this program, as shown by record application numbers this year. We must continue expanding access to educational options so every student has the opportunity to succeed in the environment that works best for them.” The Parental Choice Tax Credit program was established through House Bill 1934 in 2023. The program provides families with greater flexibility to choose educational settings that best suit their children. Under the program’s tiered structure, eligible families may receive refundable tax credits ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 per student for private school tuition, depending on household income. Additionally, families who homeschool may qualify for a $1,000 per-student tax credit for approved educational expenses. Currently, tax credits for private school expenses are capped at $250 million annually, while homeschooling credits are capped at $5 million per year. The cap is now increased to $275 million. "Parents should have the choice to find a school that best fits the needs of their child," said House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow and author of the bill. “For my daughters, the best choice for them is Bristow Public Schools. But the government shouldn’t tell other parents what is the best school for their children. This legislation simply allows parents to take some of their tax dollars to a school of their choice." House Bill 3705 passed the House by a vote of 70-19 and now heads to the Senate for further consideration.