Committees

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma House Speaker Pro Tempore Anthony Moore, R-Clinton, has been selected to serve on the National Conference of State Legislatures' Executive Committee. This governing board maintains and advances NCSL's mission of representing and supporting legislatures from all 50 states as well as U.S. commonwealths and territories. The group works to improve the quality and effectiveness of state legislatures, promotes policy innovation and communication among the legislatures and ensures state legislatures maintain a strong, cohesive voice in the federal system. The bipartisan group assists 7,386 state lawmakers and more than 30,000 legislative staff. In this new role, Moore will be on the front lines of making decisions on behalf of all legislators and staff served by NCSL. "It's an honor to be chosen to serve at this national level and to bring Oklahoma's perspective and voice to this national conversation," Moore said. "Our state is making great strides in many areas, and I'll be able to share our trajectory. I also will draw on the experience of those from other states and learn what has worked well and what remains challenging on many different policy fronts." House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, commended Moore's selection. "Anthony has been a trusted leader on many of our state's most significant policy initiatives," Hilbert said. "Whether strengthening educational opportunities, defending constitutional freedoms, protecting property rights or advancing policies that promote economic growth, Anthony has consistently demonstrated the ability to build consensus and lead with conviction. He will certainly represent Oklahoma well in his new role on the NCSL executive committee. “Anthony’s selection ensures Oklahoma has a seat at the table on important issues facing state legislatures across the country. Our federal government is created by the states, not the other way around, and strong leadership at the state level is as important as ever. There are over 7,000 state legislators across the nation and Speaker Pro Tem Moore will be a strong voice for building consensus on tough issues that will help the United States of America continue to thrive for our next 250 years.”  Terms on the executive committee are for one year and renewable for up to three years. Moore's first term began at this year's legislative summit in Chicago, held at the end of July. It culminates at next year's summit in August in Atlanta. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, and Sen. Kelly Hines, R-Oklahoma City celebrated the signing of House Bill 4486 , which authorizes the placement of a Gold Star Family Monument on the State Capitol grounds. Gov. Kevin Stitt signed the measure into law Wednesday.  "Gold Star families carry with them a sacrifice that deserves our deepest respect and lasting remembrance," Townley said. "This monument will give Oklahomans a permanent place at our State Capitol to honor the service members who gave their lives for our country and the families who continue to carry their legacy. Generations from now, I hope it serves as a reminder of the tremendous cost of the freedoms we enjoy and of the Oklahoma families who have borne that cost. I’m grateful to Senator Hines for his partnership in bringing this legislation forward and to Governor Stitt for signing it into law."  HB4486 authorizes the State Capitol Preservation Commission or its designee to work with private entities to design, construct and place the Gold Star Family Monument on the Capitol grounds. The monument is to be located in the northwest corner behind the State Capitol Arch and will be constructed at no expense to the State of Oklahoma.  "Gold Star families have paid the ultimate price for our freedom," Hines said. "This monument will serve as a public reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave military men and women and, importantly, their loved ones who somehow find the strength to carry on even in the face of unimaginable grief. It was an honor to work with Representative Townley and Gold Star families on this legislation."  The measure took effect immediately upon the governor’s signature.

OKLAHOMA CITY – A ceremonial bill signing highlighted new legislation allowing the Office of Juvenile System Oversight to share critical complaint information with law enforcement when an individual threatens a person or organization. Before House Bill 4302 , authored by Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso, and Sen. Christi Gillespie, R-Broken Arrow, complaint information was kept confidential unless a court ordered it released. The new law creates a specific exception for safety threats. "When a complaint escalates into a serious threat of violence, public safety should always come first," Norwood said. "I am thankful to Senator Gillespie for her hard work and to all those who signed on to support it. This legislation replaces inaction with action, helping law enforcement respond to serious threats before dangerous situations escalate." Gillespie said the new law will help authorities better address future threats and protect public safety. "Oklahomans should feel secure when reporting concerns within the state’s juvenile justice system," Gillespie said. "The new law allows the Office of Juvenile System Oversight to notify law enforcement when a threat appears serious and credible, while keeping other complaint information confidential. It also protects a complainant's privacy while prioritizing public safety when a situation could escalate into violence. I was proud to partner with Representative Norwood on this important measure, and I'm grateful for the Governor's support." HB4302 takes effect Nov. 1.