Representative Dell Kerbs

R

District 26

Hi, I'm Dell Kerbs and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 26th District.


representative

Leadership

Oversight Committee Chair

60th Legislature

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.

Aug 8, 2025
Recent Posts

House Education Oversight Chairman Dell Kerbs Comments on Recent Mandate by State Superintendent 

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Education Oversight Chairman Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, released the following statement after recent mandate by State Superintendent Ryan Walters to end all end-of-year state testing:  " End-of-year state assessments are mandated by both state and federal law. The Legislature has consistently worked to make student testing more efficient and meaningful for students, parents, and teachers. We look forward to continued collaboration with Superintendent Walters and school districts so that any proposed changes to student testing align with state law and provides clear, actionable information on student college and career readiness."

Apr 29, 2025
Recent Posts

Bill to Streamline Sale of State Railroad Assets Heads to Governor's Desk

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation carried by Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, to modernize the process for selling state-owned railroad assets passed the Oklahoma House of Representatives by a vote of 81-8. Senate Bill 341 directs the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to initiate a request for proposals process for the sale of any railroad assets owned by the state. Interested parties would have 120 days to respond. “This bill reflects our responsibility to manage state resources wisely and transparently,” Kerbs said. “By outlining a fair and open process for selling surplus rail properties, we’re not only protecting taxpayer interests but also creating opportunities for local development. It’s a practical solution that balances accountability with the potential for private-sector innovation.” Under the bill, ODOT is responsible for evaluating all proposals. If necessary, the department may conduct an economic impact or activity study as part of the evaluation process. The ODOT director must present a recommendation to the Transportation Commission within 90 days after reviewing the proposals. The measure also clarifies that any purchases made under a lease-purchase agreement must be approved by the Transportation Commission. Sen. Avery Frix, R-Muskogee, is the Senate author of SB 341 and, alongside Rep. Kerbs, brings a longstanding commitment to transportation policy and infrastructure development as the measure moves through the legislative process. “With the Legislature’s approval of Senate Bill 341, we’re opening doors for economic development and growth by making it easier to transfer underutilized state-owned railroads to the private sector,” Frix said. “Putting these rail lines back in the hands of the private sector will strengthen our state’s railroads and our transportation system overall. This bill is an important step toward modernizing our rail infrastructure, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.” SB341 now moves to the governor's desk for consideration. If signed into law, it would go into effect July 1.