Representative Erick Harris

R

District 39

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

representative

News & Announcements

May 7, 2024
Recent Posts

Governor Signs Alanda's Law

Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, today celebrated the signing of Alanda's Law, House Bill 2478, which expedites the legal process for victims of domestic abuse seeking temporary relief in custody cases. Under HB2478, courts are required to schedule a hearing on temporary custody orders within 10 days of a domestic abuse victim filing a request for temporary custody orders unless both parties mutually agree to waive this timeline. Harris said this provision specifically applies in cases where the application contains allegations of domestic abuse and either an emergency temporary protective order is already in place against the accused party or the accused has been criminally charged with domestic abuse. "For victims of domestic violence, the timing of a judge's availability should not be a barrier," Harris said. "It is crucial to ensure that domestic violence victims appear timely before a judge to expedite the decision-making process." The measure will require the court to issue a ruling on the matter versus arbitrarily scheduling another hearing for a later date, enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of legal proceedings in these critical situations. "Often, children are involved in these situations," Harris said. "It is imperative that judges swiftly act to ensure families avoid unnecessary heartache during an already traumatic time." Harris named HB2478 Alanda's Law after Alanda Bradshaw, a victim of domestic abuse, in honor of her memory and her beautiful daughter. He said the sustained abuse Alanda endured tragically contributed to her premature passing. "I hope this legislation will honor Alanda and other victims of domestic abuse," Harris said. "The most dangerous moment for a domestic violence victim is when they try to leave their abuser. Alanda's Law protects victims and their families during this critical time." HB2478 will go into effect on Nov. 1.

Apr 18, 2024
Recent Posts

House Bill Aimed at Oklahoma Contracting Integrity Receives Senate Approval

The Oklahoma Senate passed House Bill 3623 on Wednesday, a measure that aims to prevent public funds from supporting illegal immigration, thereby enhancing accountability and integrity in contracting practices in Oklahoma. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, authored the measure. The bill would require all contractors or subcontractors who contract with the state or a public employer to submit an affidavit to the State Purchasing Director affirming compliance with the state's E-Verify requirements. "With House Bill 3623, Oklahoma reinforces its commitment to fiscal accountability, ensuring that no public dollar is used to support illegal immigration," Harris said. "E-Verify compliance mandates not only uphold the principles of fairness and transparency but also strengthen the trust of our citizens in the integrity of our workforce and immigration processes." This system is designed to verify the citizenship status of all new employees, ensuring adherence to legal standards. Under HB3623, contractors who knowingly provide false affidavits will face civil penalties. The first offense will result in an administrative penalty of $5,000, increasing by $2,000 for each subsequent violation. Additionally, contractors who breach this mandate risk having their contracts terminated. Sen. Weaver, R-Moore, carried the measure in the Senate. "By holding contractors and subcontractors accountable through this legislation, we're ensuring Oklahomans' hard-earned tax dollars are not supporting the employment of individuals who are not authorized to work in our state," Weaver said. "I am appreciative of my Senate colleagues for passing this measure out of our chamber and putting us one step closer to having these protections in place. I'd also like to thank Representative Harris for his collaboration on this measure that makes sure Oklahoma citizens are prioritized in our state's job market." HB3623 is Harris' first bill to pass both chambers. It passed the Senate 39 – 5 and now heads to the Governor for consideration.

Mar 14, 2024
Recent Posts

Harris Advances Bill to Strengthen Contracting Integrity in Oklahoma

Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, passed his first bill on Tuesday, which would enhance accountability and integrity in contracting practices in Oklahoma by ensuring that no public funds are used to support illegal immigration. House Bill 3623 would require all contractors or subcontractors who contract with the state or a public employer to submit an affidavit to the State Purchasing Director affirming compliance with the state’s E-Verify requirements. This system is designed to verify the citizenship status of all new employees, ensuring adherence to legal standards. "Our goal in creating this bill is to ensure that public contracts are only awarded to companies that hire legal workers," Harris said. "It will address concerns about undocumented immigration and provide more opportunities for citizens in the job market. We have included penalties for false information and termination clauses to protect taxpayer interests and promote fair competition among contractors." Under this measure, contractors who provide false affidavits will face civil penalties. The first offense will result in an administrative penalty of $5,000, increasing by $2,000 for each subsequent violation. Additionally, contractors who breach this mandate risk having their contracts terminated. Harris said Oklahoma is committed to promoting fairness, honesty, and compliance in all aspects of governance and procurement. HB3623 passed the floor 90 – 4 and now moves to the Senate, where Sen. Weaver, R-Moore, is the author.