OKLAHOMA CITY – Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, today responded to a letter sent by the Biden Administration last week regarding House Bill 4156 which creates the crime of impermissible occupation in Oklahoma. The letter was sent to Gov. Kevin Stitt and Attorney General Gentner Drummond by the Biden Dept. of Justice, and threatened legal action if the law is enforced. "The Biden Administration's continued failures to address the illegal immigration crisis in our country are what necessitated the passage of House Bill 4156 in the first place. I find it laughable that in the Administration's letter to Gov. Stitt and Attorney General Drummond, they claim Oklahoma is interfering with the function of the federal government on immigration issues. There has been nothing but disfunction at the federal level since President Biden took office. House Bill 4156 was a carefully crafted, well-thought-out piece of legislation designed to acknowledge the role of the federal government in immigration matters, while at the same time protect the sovereignty and security of our state's borders. I fully support the defense of this law by our state's attorney general, and look forward to seeing it upheld in court." -END- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Daniel Seitz, House Leadership Communications Liaison Phone: (405) 962-7649 Email: daniel.seitz@okhouse.gov
OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Kevin Stitt on Wednesday signed into law legislation that will fund the building of an arch at the Oklahoma Capitol to serve as an honorary symbol of the services performed by the Oklahoma National Guard. House Bill 4012 is authored by Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore. "This arch was part of the original design for the state Capitol, and I believe it will add to the beauty of our complex," McBride said. "In addition, it will pay tribute to the legacy of Oklahoma National Guard members and their service and protection of the citizens of our great state." McBride, who is term-limited this year after serving 12 years in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, said he's pleased that one of his last pieces of legislation will leave an enduring monument for Oklahomans to enjoy. Architect Solomon Layton included drawings of the arch in early plans for the Capitol, which was completed in 1917. McBride said the arch originally was designed to stretch across Lincoln Boulevard much like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. It was one of the structures, like the dome, however, that was laid aside because of lack of funding at the time. The 30-foot tall and 60-foot long scale model arch would be constructed south of the visitor's parking lot on the south of the Capitol. It would have a small amphitheater that could seat about 100 people, and the grassy area that now exists would be named Veterans Park. HB 4012 creates a revolving fund into which state appropriations, donations, gifts and bequests by private individuals or other entities could deposit funds for the purpose of maintaining the arch. McBride said the project has been in the works since about 2014, before restoration of the Capitol began. He said he wanted to get the $250 million restoration project off the books on time and under budget before he ran this bill asking for funding for the arch. The estimated cost of the arch is $4.3 million, which would come from the Legacy Capital Financing Fund to the Oklahoma Capitol Improvement Authority. The Senate author of HB 4012 is Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City.
Legislation adding a financial literacy course to high school graduation requirements has been signed into law. House Bill 2158 was authored by Rep. Dick Lowe, R-Amber, who said empowering students to take control of their finances starts with education. "Requiring students to master financial literacy before graduating isn't just about balancing budgets," Lowe said. "It's about laying a good foundation as they begin the next chapter of their lives by equipping them with the tools they need to navigate financial decisions thoughtfully." The measure requires students to complete 1/2 unit of personal financial literacy coursework in the 10th, 11th or 12th grade. The coursework may be integrated into an existing class or taught on its own. HB2158 outlines certain topics to be taught, including retirement planning, investing, online banking features and credit scores. "I proudly signed HB 2158 into law because students need these crucial financial literacy skills to thrive in their lives and careers," said Governor Kevin Stitt. "I’m proud of Representative Lowe for introducing this important piece of legislation, and I’m excited for the doors this opens for Oklahoma students." "Housing is a basic human right, and homeownership is a dream for many," said Bryan Hutchinson, CEO of the Oklahoma Association of REALTORS®. "Putting financial literacy tools into our students' hands is key to making the next generation of homeowners a reality. This bill better prepares Oklahoma’s students to navigate the pathway to homeownership and creates the foundation for financial responsibility. The Oklahoma Association of REALTORS®? was pleased to support HB 2158, and our 14,000 members sincerely thank Representative Dick Lowe and Senator Brenda Stanley for prioritizing this legislation." HB2158 was authored in the Senate by Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City. "In addition to ensuring Oklahoma students receive a quality education, we must provide them with tools for success as they transition into adulthood," Stanley said. "It was an honor to work with Representative Lowe on this legislation that ensures young adults in our state are introduced to budgeting, investing, retirement planning, credit scores, home ownership, and other subjects related to personal finances. I appreciate the governor for signing this measure that ensures the next generation is empowered to make wise financial decisions following the completion of this graduation requirement." HB2158 will take effect July 1, 2025.