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OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Annie Menz, D-Norman, Rep. Jacob Rosecrants, D-Norman, and Rep. Jared Deck, D-Norman, released the following statements regarding a Norman councilmember’s request to discuss the potential de-annexation of Norman property east of 60th Avenue. “We can’t allow extreme proposals like this to silence East Norman,” said Menz. “Our concerns may be inconvenient for corporatists who will stop at nothing to replace homes and farms with toll roads and strip malls, but taking away our municipal votes and surrendering Norman’s authority over zoning and future development is not only bad business, it’s immoral. I think we should all be asking who has been behind these municipal-level ideas of late, and how do they benefit from making Norman look crazy? I realize this proposal remains under discussion, but the people of House District 45 want to make it clear right now: we will always fight for our right to representation at every level of government.” Rep. Rosecrants says this potential de-annexation could lead to economic repercussions. “Regardless of political party or geography, elected officials should protect representative government, private property rights, and taxpayers,” said Rosecrants. “Spending tax dollars to disenfranchise rural Norman residents is flat-out wrong, as de-annexing East Norman could have serious consequences for all of us: think lost economic opportunities, a smaller tax base, and potentially higher costs for everyone else. Also, attempting to save a buck by reducing Norman’s fire and police workforce only increases home insurance rates, and I don’t think anybody wants that. This proposal is obviously shortsighted, harmful, and a misuse of taxpayer resources.”  Rep. Deck says this request could have real consequences. “Governing is not an academic exercise, it has real-life consequences for real people,” said Deck. “What public good comes from selling out our rural, more conservative neighbors and their public safety? The answer is ‘none.’ Just as our Council is working to restore public confidence, one councilmember goes rogue with another unserious proposal to embarrass our community. I am confident the rest of the Council will reject this lunacy and correct course.”  The Norman City Council Business and Community Affairs Committee will consider the matter Thursday, Sept. 3 at 4 p.m. Currently, the agenda item is for discussion only, with no ordinance or vote scheduled.  -END-

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Carl Newton, R-Cherokee, on Monday held an interim study on the critical role of advanced primary care and value-based care in improving Oklahoman's healthcare outcomes and reducing costs. The study was held before the House Appropriations and Budget Health Subcommittee. "We're concerned about the cost of healthcare and are trying to make all aspects of it more affordable for individuals and taxpayers," Newton said. "When people can afford to access preventative healthcare, they have a better quality of life." Kari Webber, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Academy of Family Physicians and the executive director of the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said both organizations are doing everything possible to promote primary care. "One of the things that we know," Webber said, "is that when patients are meeting with primary care physicians, costs of healthcare go down. And when we're doing that preventative care and care coordination models, we know we see impacts not only in the patient and their health outcomes but also the costs of overall care in general." Newton explained in his study request that advanced primary care is a physician-led, team-based model that expands upon traditional primary care by emphasizing prevention, care coordination, enhanced patient access, behavioral health integration and accountability for quality and outcomes. Traditional fee-for-service payment models, however, often do not provide the resources necessary for such care. Advanced primary care and value-based care are complementary strategies. Value-based care rewards providers for improving outcomes and reducing costs, while advanced primary care provides the infrastructure and care management capabilities necessary to achieve those goals. Both have shown to reduce overall healthcare costs by reducing unnecessary treatments and hospitalizations. For the study, Newton drew together healthcare providers representing rural, regional and tribal interests. These included Dr. John Zubialde, senior advisor for the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, Teresa Huggins, CEO of the Stigler Health & Wellness Center, Inc.; Dr. Marty M. Lofgren, and registered nurses Sandra Vaughn and Deana Aissaoui with Absentee Shawnee Tribal Health Systems; Dr. Jesse Campbell, regional physician executive, Sommer Skinner, vice president of Primary Care, and Rachel Allen, a registered nurse and director of operations for Mercy Oklahoma Community. Presenters discussed the successful implementation of advanced primary care, which requires investments in care teams, technology, data analytics, quality reporting and patient outreach. The study further examined whether current payment models adequately support these investments, particularly for independent and rural physician practices. Study presenter Dr. John Zubialde explained the overall need for advanced primary care versus other care models to address those with chronic and more complex healthcare needs. This generally represents the greatest costs to patients, insurers and the public. "When we look at Oklahoma's health statistics compared to national averages," Zubialde said, "we can see that chronic disease prevalence in Oklahoma is substantially above many national averages across the majority of the major measures." Mental health concerns, including depression, and substance abuse disorders, including methamphetamine and opioid use, along with preventable deaths, premature death rates and preventable hospitalizations also are substantially higher than national averages. At the same time, the use of preventive care services are well below the national average. "Oklahoma ranks about mid-tier in per capita health spending," Zubialde said. "That's a positive. However, when you recognize that in terms of per-capita income and resources for the average Oklahoma family, we're in the bottom area." This all translates into some statistics that must be considered, he said. "We're in the top ten states for the steepest health services cost increases. We're in the top ten states for individuals forgoing care because they cannot afford it. Even worse, we're in the top two states for highest medical debt, approximately double the national average, and we're in the top two states for highest rates of uninsured patients." That ranks Oklahoma at about 48th out of 51 states and Washington, D.C. "Broad-based primary care that incorporates advanced primary care has the best chance for helping to change this equation in our state," he said. The study can be watched on the House website under News & Media, live proceedings, search by date for Aug. 24, IS26-035 Advanced Primary Care and Value Based Care in Oklahoma .

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 – A law making it a felony crime to traffic abortion pills is now in effect. Rep. Denise Crosswhite Hader, R-Piedmont, is the author of House Bill 1168 . The measure creates a felony offense for anyone to knowingly possess or deliver abortion-inducing drugs — including mifepristone, misoprostol and methotrexate — to someone who intends to use them for an unlawful abortion. "Today, Oklahoma's anti-chemical abortion pill trafficking act officially takes effect, and I couldn't be prouder," Crosswhite Hader said "Four years ago, I set out to close the loophole that let traffickers ship dangerous chemical abortion pills into our state with no oversight and no accountability. This law protects vulnerable women who have too often been coerced or deceived into taking these pills with no medical care or support. It's projected to save around four thousand preborn babies a year in Oklahoma, and every one of those lives matters. I'm grateful to everyone who fought alongside us to get here."  Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, is the Senate author of the bill. “Four years of work led to this day," Bullard said. "Oklahoma’s anti-chemical abortion pill trafficking act is now the law of the land, and traffickers who ship these deadly pills into our state can finally be held criminally accountable. We estimate this law will save roughly four thousand preborn babies a year in Oklahoma. That’s four thousand reasons this fight was worth it, and I’m proud of every person who helped carry it across the finish line.” Crosswhite Hader said she's heard reports of women being given these drugs by non-medical professionals who do not understand what the medications can do to a woman if administered incorrectly.  Under HB 1168, anyone convicted of trafficking or attempting to traffic abortion-inducing drugs could face a fine of up to $100,000, up to 10 years in prison, or both. This is the same as current law for those performing an illegal abortion. The legislation only addresses those who intend to distribute these drugs illegally to others, not those who are accessing these drugs for themselves, Crosswhite Hader said.  This measure does not limit or prohibit the sale of contraceptives, and it would not impact couples undergoing IVF treatment. Under the definition of "Abortion-inducing drug, " included in the bill, it specifies that this definition does not apply to drugs that may be known to cause an abortion, but which are prescribed for other medical indications, such as chemotherapeutic agents or diagnostic drugs, or for treatment of an ectopic pregnancy or spontaneous miscarriage. Additionally, HB 1168 does not apply to pharmacists, drug manufacturers or distributors who legally possess, sell or distribute pharmaceuticals intended for lawful medical purposes. The bill passed the House last year and the Senate this year. It was signed into law by the governor May 5. 

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.

Members of the Oklahoma Accountancy Board and the Oklahoma Society of CPAs joined Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, for the ceremonial signing of legislation that offers another pathway to obtaining certified public accountant (CPA) designation. House Bill 4317 creates an additional path to achieving the certification while maintaining the requirement to pass the CPA exam. Kendrix said the update will modernize the licensure structure while protecting the quality of work. Kendrix, the bill's author and a CPA of more than 30 years, said the change will help address the state’s ongoing shortage of CPAs as the profession has evolved beyond traditional number-crunching to include more consulting and advisory work. "We need to make sure our licensing requirements are preparing students for the workforce, not simply requiring them to take more classes and pay more costs," Kendrix said. "This legislation helps us move toward a system that emphasizes mentorship and real-world experience, while still maintaining the higher education path for those who choose it." In addition to passing the CPA exam and one year of supervised work experience, the existing paths require either a master's degree in accounting or at least 150 additional credit hours. The new path requires a bachelor's degree in accounting and two years of supervised work experience. All candidates will still be required to pass the four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination within the designated timeframe before receiving their CPA certification. Prior to licensure, candidates must also pass an ethics exam and a criminal background check. HB4317 also allows the Oklahoma Accountancy Board to grant CPA certificates to applicants licensed in other states. The update takes effect Nov. 1.

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 signing was held for House Bill 1687, which updates Oklahoma law governing advance healthcare directives and medical decision-making. House Bill 1687 , authored by Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay, and Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, creates the Uniform Health Care Decisions Act of 2026. The law gives Oklahomans clearer options for documenting their healthcare preferences, appointing an agent and designating who may make decisions if they lose the ability to do so themselves. "I know how difficult healthcare decisions can be for patients and their loved ones," Roe said. "This signing represents years of careful work to give Oklahomans a stronger voice in their healthcare, protects patients’ wishes while giving families and medical professionals clear guidance when it matters most." HB1687 presumes individuals have the capacity to make or revoke healthcare decisions unless a court determines otherwise or qualified medical professionals properly rebut that presumption. "We began this work during the 2025 legislative session and continued working closely with Oklahoma for Life and many others to make sure the language was compassionate and carefully crafted for families facing very difficult medical decisions," Roe said. "I am proud to see this legislation now signed into law." The law also establishes safeguards for patient rights, permits directives addressing mental health care and provides legal protections for healthcare professionals and institutions acting in good faith. HB1687 takes effect July 1, 2027.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Stitt on Tuesday held a ceremonial bill signing for legislation that creates the True Grit Trail in eastern Oklahoma. House Bill 1411 was authored by Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton and Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain. "'True Grit' is a classic story," Grego said. "And much of it was set right here in Oklahoma. This new trail will give us a way to show off the places made popular in the story. Hopefully, it also will draw new visitors to the state, positively impacting our local hotels, restaurants and other businesses." Hamilton added, “The True Grit Trail will be a uniquely Oklahoma experience that celebrates our rich western heritage and highlights a story that captured our nation’s attention with an iconic novel and film,” Hamilton said. "Showcasing the historic sites in True Grit will encourage visitors from across the nation to explore Southeastern Oklahoma, which will greatly contribute to the region’s economy.” "True Grit," a novel written by Charles Portis, has since been turned into several movie adaptations. It follows the story of 14-year-old Mattie Ross who hires U.S. Marshall Reuben J. "Rooster" Cogburn and a Texas Ranger to avenge the murder of her father. The trio trace the murderous gang into what was known as "Indian Territory" in 1878. The movie role of Rooster Cogburn was first played by John Wayne in 1969 and in a 2010 remake by Jeff Bridges. Kim Darby played the original Mattie Ross. Hailee Steinfeld played the character in the 2010 film. Towns and places of interest along the trail include: Sallisaw, Spiro, Bokoshe, McCurtain, Kinta, Quinton, Krebs, McAlester, Hartshorne, Wilburton, Red Oak, Bengal, Talihina, Robbers Cave State Park, and the Talimena National Scenic Byway. HB 1411 was signed into law in April and takes effect Nov. 1. Ceremonial bill signings give legislators the opportunity to invite others who were instrumental in the legislation. Tuesday's ceremonial signing featured several southeast Oklahomans dressed up as characters from the novel and the movies, including Zoe Reyes, who appeared as Mattie Ross, and Dr. Clarance Benes representing Rooster Cogburn. Also in attendance was Mike Cathey, a constituent of Grego who provided much of the inspiration for the bill. Cathey writes a weekly newspaper column and an annual tourism column. This year, with the passage of the True Grit Trail bill, he encouraged readers to find their way to Dardanelle, AR, the fictional home of Mattie Ross, and then traverse the near 260 miles along Arkansas State Highway 22 to Fort Smith, were Mattie travels to engage Deputy Cogburn to help find the man who killed her father. "Then travel with Mattie, Rooster and Texas Ranger LeBouef across the Arkansas river into Indian Territory (Sallisaw, Oklahoma to Spiro and then Oklahoma State Highway 31) as they head toward McAlester, (now Oklahoma), in search of the murderer Tom Chaney as he has been recently seen at J.J. McAlester’s Store. "This journey finds the traveler in the beautiful San Bois Mountains valley, in the now Lake Eufaula (Oklahoma’s largest lake) region, and following a visit to J.J. McAlester’s Olde Town stomping grounds, into the outlaws’ Robbers Cave and finally in the Winding Stair Mountains of the Ouachita National Forest of southeastern Oklahoma. And there is so much more as Charles Portis, I believe, purposely set his novel to parallel the Trail of Tears and the Butterfield Trail." Cathey said Arkansas launched and designated the True Grit Trail in Arkansas in 2019. In the fall of 2023 following the Charles Portis Symposium at the University of Arkansas Fort Smith, on the grounds of the U.S. Marshal’s Museum in Fort Smith, Cathey and others launched the True Grit Trail in Oklahoma. He then worked with the Oklahoma authors of HB 1411 to establish the trail in Oklahoma statute. HB 1411 requires the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to post signs along Oklahoma state highways directing visitors to sites along the new trail. ODOT and the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department will be required to collaborate to maintain information regarding the True Grit Trail on an online platform.