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

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.

Mar 26, 2025
Recent Posts

House Passes Bill Strengthening Parental Consent in Special Education Decisions

OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill strengthening parental rights in special education passed the House today, requiring schools to obtain parental consent before enrolling students with IEPs in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). House Bill 1393, authored by Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee, now moves to the Senate for further consideration. HB1393 directs the State Board of Education to develop a standardized parental consent form for school districts to use when determining whether a student with an IEP will participate in the OAAP. Under the bill, the form must clearly outline the benefits, risks and legal implications of parental consent or refusal. “This bill prioritizes parental rights while preserving the integrity of the special education process,” Kerbs said. “By requiring parental consent, we ensure that families are fully informed and actively involved in decisions that impact their child’s education. This measure empowers parents to advocate for their children and strengthens collaboration between families and schools.” Under the bill, schools must hold an IEP team meeting with the parent before making any decisions regarding OAAP participation. The school is required to notify parents at least five days in advance, unless otherwise agreed. Additionally, the bill stipulates that schools cannot require a student to participate in the OAAP without parental consent unless the school has made reasonable efforts to obtain consent or has obtained approval through a due process hearing. “This legislation ensures that parents have a clear voice in determining the educational path for their child,” Kerbs said. “By requiring schools to obtain consent before placing students in alternate assessments, we are strengthening transparency and parental involvement in the IEP process.” HB1393 passed with a 71-23 vote and now moves to the Senate for consideration. If signed into law, the measure would take effect on July 1, ahead of the upcoming school year.