Representative Danny Sterling

R

District 27

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


representative

News & Announcements

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.

May 13, 2025
Recent Posts

Sterling Bills Signed Into Law Strengthen Youth Protections and Expand Educational Access

OKLAHOMA CITY – Two measures authored by Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, aimed at improving educational access for justice-involved youth and strengthening child protection laws, have officially been signed into law. House Bill 1940 , signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt on May 9, modifies charter school sponsorship provisions to allow the Statewide Charter School Board to sponsor charter schools when the applicant is the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) or is contracted with OJA. The bill is designed to expand educational services to youth in the custody or supervision of county juvenile justice systems. The new law will take effect July 1. “This legislation helps ensure that youth under county or state supervision don’t fall through the cracks when it comes to education,” Sterling said. “By enabling the Statewide Charter School Board to work directly with OJA, we’re creating more opportunities for academic support and rehabilitation.” House Bill 1935 , which became law without the governor’s signature on May 8, updates the statute of limitations for the failure to report abuse or neglect. The bill stipulates that legal action must be initiated by the victim’s 45th birthday, allowing survivors more time to seek justice. The measure takes effect Nov. 1. “Delays in reporting abuse are common, especially when the victim is a child,” Sterling said. “Many survivors don’t fully understand what happened to them until years later, or they may be afraid to speak out due to trauma, fear of retaliation or lack of support." According to the American Society of for the Positive Care of Children , 89% of victims are maltreated by one or both parents. "We know that, in many cases, children are reluctant to speak out because they don’t want to 'bite the hand that feeds them', especially when the neglect or abuse is coming from a parent or caregiver", Sterling said. "This change recognizes those challenges and gives survivors a more realistic window of time to process their experiences and pursue justice. It’s about creating a legal system that reflects compassion and understanding of the long-term impacts of abuse.” Sterling, a longtime advocate for youth services and public education, said both bills reflect ongoing efforts to better serve vulnerable populations across Oklahoma.

Mar 13, 2025
Recent Posts

Maddix Bias Act Unanimously Passes Oklahoma House

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives today passed House Bill 1933 , also known as the Maddix Bias Act, with a unanimous 89-0 vote. The bill, authored by Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, seeks to prevent the misuse of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, and protect Oklahomans from its dangerous effects. The legislation is named in honor of Maddix Bias, a standout high school baseball player and a 2023 graduate of Tecumseh High School. Bias's life was tragically cut short in a car crash caused by his boss, who was under the influence of nitrous oxide whippets. "Nitrous oxide is often mistakenly viewed as harmless, but its misuse can have devastating consequences," Sterling said. "This bill is about protecting young people and ensuring no other family has to experience the heartbreaking loss that Maddix's family has endured." Although nitrous oxide is strictly regulated for medical use in healthcare settings like dental offices, it remains widely available for recreational use in vape shops, convenience stores, and online. Chronic misuse of the substance can lead to severe damage to the brain, nerves and spinal cord—and even death. HB1933 would make it a misdemeanor to possess, buy, sell, or transfer nitrous oxide for the purpose of intoxication. Violators could face up to 90 days in jail, a $5,000 fine or both. The bill would also increase penalties for those who possess more than 16 grams of nitrous oxide or sell it to minors. Individuals over 21 who provide nitrous oxide to anyone under 18 could face steep fines, jail time and suspension of business licenses. "I am proud to see this bill advance with such overwhelming support," Sterling said. "We owe it to Maddix and his family to take action and prevent future tragedies." The Maddix Bias Act now moves to the Senate for further consideration.