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

May 15, 2025
Recent Posts

Parental Consent Requirement to Take Effect

OKLAHOMA CITY - A new law strengthening parental involvement in insurance decisions will take effect later this year. Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, authored House Bill 1516 , which requires signed parental or guardian consent before a minor can enter into a life, accident or health insurance contract. The bill also raises the minimum age from 15 to 16 for minors to contract for such insurance and provides legal protections for insurance agents acting in good faith. “The Oklahoma legislative branch encompasses numerous intricate components, and it is concerning that minors have been able to enter into legally binding agreements with insurance companies," Banning said. "I would like to express my gratitude to my fellow legislators for their support in advancing HB1516 which is a sensible adjustment to current law no longer allowing minors to enter into such agreements.” Previously, Oklahoma law allowed 15-year-olds to enter into certain insurance agreements on their own. HB1516 revises that by requiring parental or guardian consent and ensuring that unemancipated minors cannot be held to premium payment agreements such as promissory notes, without oversight. Additionally, the law expands regulation to include other forms of insurance contracts beyond life, accident and health, ensuring a broader layer of protection for minors and their families. The intent is to prevent minors from entering into legally and financially binding agreements without the maturity, understanding or supervision necessary for such commitments. HB1516 passed both chambers and became law without the governor’s signature. It takes effect Nov. 1.

Apr 8, 2025
Recent Posts

Tulsa Area Reps Celebrate Progress in Tulsa Public Schools

OKLAHOMA CITY – Reps. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, Mark Tedford, R-Jenks, Mike Lay, R-Jenks, and Rob Hall, R-Tulsa, issued a joint statement Tuesday following the announcement that 13 Tulsa Public Schools have officially exited federal school improvement designations.  The schools were removed from the Continuous School Improvement (CSI) list or the Most Rigorous Intervention list, both of which are part of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act. The designations are updated on a three-year cycle and identify schools in need of targeted support based on factors such as academic performance and graduation rates.  “We commend the incredible progress made by the students, educators and families at Tulsa Public Schools,” the representatives said in a joint statement. “This kind of growth takes time, hard work and a lot of heart. These 13 schools have shown what’s possible when everyone is committed to moving forward together.”  “This is more than a milestone — it’s a moment of pride for our entire community,” they continued. “We’ve seen students rise to the occasion, educators go above and beyond and families stay engaged every step of the way. We’re excited to see where this momentum leads and we’ll continue supporting efforts that keep Tulsa schools on the path to success.”  Unity Learning Academy, Edison Middle School, Tulsa MET High School, and 10 other campuses met the criteria to exit the federal lists, either by making significant academic gains or maintaining strong progress since a January 2024 update. Several schools that met early exit criteria opted to continue receiving support under their CSI status, demonstrating a sustained commitment to improvement.  “These results show what’s possible when schools, families, and communities work together,” the representatives said. “We applaud the leadership at each of these schools and the work being done across Tulsa to improve outcomes for students.”  The legislators continue to support efforts that drive academic achievement and ensure every Oklahoma student has access to a quality education.

Feb 26, 2025
Recent Posts

Bill to Shift School Board Election Dates Advances in Committee

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 1151 , authored by Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, passed through the House Government Oversight Committee Tuesday, moving one step closer to making school board elections more accessible for Oklahoma voters. The bill proposes shifting school board elections from February and April to June and November, aligning them with larger election cycles. It also standardizes term lengths for school board members, setting four-year terms for both elementary and independent district boards. Banning emphasized the importance of increasing voter participation by making the voting process more convenient and accessible. “This bill will create more accessibility for Oklahomans to vote by aligning school board elections with general election cycles,” Banning said. “By reducing the number of separate trips to the polls, we can enhance voter turnout and ensure community voices are better represented in school board decisions.” Low voter turnout in school board elections has been an ongoing concern. In April 2024, only 146 voters participated in the Union Public Schools Board election for Zone 4. Banning believes aligning these elections with larger cycles will lead to greater community engagement and a more accurate reflection of public sentiment. “This change isn’t just about convenience—it’s about strengthening our democracy,” Banning added. “When more people participate, we ensure that school board decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the entire community.” Additionally, HB1151 would help school districts save on election costs. In 2023, Oklahoma school districts spent $16.8 million on off-cycle school elections. By consolidating election dates, districts could redirect significant funds toward educational needs. With today’s committee approval, HB1151 is eligible to be heard on the House floor.