Representative Erick Harris

R

District 39

Hi, I’m Erick Harris and I represent the people of Oklahoma’s 39th District.

representative

Leadership

Assistant Majority Whip

60th Legislature

News & Announcements

May 15, 2025
Recent Posts

House Remembers Fallen Law Enforcement Officers During National Police Week

The Oklahoma House of Representatives paused to remember the lives of two Oklahoma law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty over the past year.  The House held a moment of silence in remembrance of Corporal Robert William Sumner, who served with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, and Brian Keith Herbert, who served with the Osage Nation Police Department.  The House also adopted House Resolution 1029 , authored by Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, recognizing the week of May 11 through May 17, 2025, as National Police Week in Oklahoma and designating May 15, 2025, as Peace Officers Memorial Day.  The resolution aligns with the national observance of National Police Week, first established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, to honor law enforcement officers who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.  "Every day, men and women in law enforcement put their lives on the line to protect our communities," Harris said. "During National Police Week, and especially on Peace Officers Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on their courage and recognize the debt of gratitude we owe to them and their families. We must never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe."  The resolution affirms the House’s continued support for federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers and their efforts to uphold justice and public safety with honor, integrity, and dedication.

May 13, 2025
Recent Posts

'Shai Cooper Act' to Take Effect

A pro-family measure streamlining the adoption process for immediate relatives while protecting children will take effect later this year.  Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, authored House Bill 2647 , which establishes clear provisions on when a court can waive preplacement home studies. It also expands the eligibility for these waivers to include immediate relatives, including siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, of the child. The bill is named after Harris' 13-year-old constituent Shai Cooper, who is adopted.  Under the Shai Cooper Act, immediate relatives could apply for a home study waiver if they have been married for at least one year, have no felony convictions and have no protection orders against them. Single immediate relatives may apply for a waiver as well.  "The unanimous, bipartisan support behind the Shai Cooper Act shows just how committed the Legislature is to protecting children while making it easier for loving relatives to provide a safe, permanent home," Harris said. "I'm incredibly proud to see this bill, inspired by my constituent Shai Cooper, become law and make a real difference for families across Oklahoma." HB2647 was carried in the Senate by Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond.  "The enactment of the Shai Cooper Act marks a significant step forward in our commitment to Oklahoma's children and families," Thompson said. "By allowing courts to waive preplacement home studies for qualified relatives, we are removing unnecessary barriers that delay permanent, loving placements. This law honors the legacy of Shai Cooper and reflects our dedication to prioritizing the best interests of our most vulnerable citizens." The Shai Cooper Act passed both chambers unanimously and became law without the governor's signature. It takes effect on Nov. 1. 

May 2, 2025
Recent Posts

House Passes Bill Expanding Firearm Carry Rights to Appellate Judges

A measure that would include certain judges and justices in Oklahoma's open carry law is heading to the governor's desk. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, passed  Senate Bill 742  through the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Wednesday. The measure amends Oklahoma's Self-Defense Act to allow judges of the Court of Civil Appeals and the Court of Criminal Appeals, as well as Oklahoma Supreme Court justices, to carry a firearm into a courthouse. "This bill ensures that appellate judges and justices, like their district court counterparts, have the ability to protect themselves and others in the courthouse if they so choose," Harris said. "It’s a common-sense update that reflects the reality of modern security concerns. I'm thankful for the support of my House colleagues and hope to see this measure signed into law quickly." The bill was proposed in the Senate by Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville. "Our appellate judges and justices make decisions that carry significant consequences, and they deserve the same ability to protect themselves as our district judges," Gollihare said. "Senate Bill 742 is a practical solution that brings consistency to our law and acknowledges the very real security concerns members of the judiciary face. I appreciate Representative Harris’ leadership in the House and our colleagues’ support in moving this measure forward." Having passed the House 77-14, SB742 awaits action by the governor. If signed into law, it would take effect Nov. 1.