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Legislation designating certain degrees or certificates in postsecondary institutions as "credentials of value" was signed into law last week. Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, authored House Bill 2398 to encourage the improvement of student outcomes and increase workforce alignment. The bill authorizes the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) and the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (CareerTech) to establish qualifying degrees and certificates as "Credentials of Value." Qualifying degrees and certificates must demonstrably provide a positive return on investments for students, fill a labor market demand or meet a need in the state's workforce. "Oklahoma is constantly growing, and students need to know what educational pathways will open doors for them," Hill said. "House Bill 2398 helps students find the right career for them by providing the necessary resources to make informed decisions for their future. I am thankful to the governor and my fellow legislators for their support of this legislation as we work together to create a brighter future for Oklahoma." Under the measure, programs designated a "credential of value" must produce annual reporting on completion rates, employment outcomes, earnings and program costs. Hill said this information will assist students in choosing a career that will provide them with long-term success. Sen. Aaron Reinhardt, R-Jenks, is the Senate author of the bill. "I appreciate the governor’s support of this legislation that gives every student the information they need to make an educated decision about their future," Reinhardt said. "Through cooperation and collaboration among colleges, universities, career technology centers and workforce leaders, we can show students which degrees and credentials offer real economic value, leading them to successful, high-demand careers." "Designating Credentials of Value that directly align with local and state workforce needs positions colleges and universities to prioritize academic programs in critical fields, our state to meet changing employer demands, and Oklahomans to make informed education and career choices that can lead to lifetime success," said OSRHE Chancellor Sean Burrage. "Thank you, Rep. Hill, Sen. Reinhardt, and Gov. Stitt, for your vision and leadership throughout the transition from legislation to law." HB2398 will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns sine die.

OKLAHOMA CITY – The True Grit Trail in eastern Oklahoma will become a reality now that House Bill 1411 has been signed into law by the governor. Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton is the author of the legislation. "I think everyone in Oklahoma and probably in the nation is familiar with the story of 'True Grit,' either from the novel written by Charles Portis or through the movie adaptations," Grego said. "Because the story takes place partly in Oklahoma, we thought it would be great to memorialize this trail and perhaps attract some additional tourism to this area. Oklahoma already has popular golf and fishing trails as well as a new Civil Rights Trail. This will add to the reasons for people to come and visit our great state." HB 1411 creates the True Grit Trail in eastern Oklahoma. The measure requires the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to post signs along Oklahoma state highways directing visitors to sites along the trail. 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. 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. "True Grit" 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. Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, is the Senate author of the bill.

Today, Governor Kevin Stitt signed Senate Bill 1778 into law, strengthening Oklahoma’s Strong Readers Act and making historic investments to help ensure every student can read by the end of third grade. The legislation strengthens early literacy efforts through statewide reading screenings, targeted interventions grounded in the science of reading, additional support and training for teachers, stronger accountability measures and improved communication with parents about their child’s reading progress. Under the new law, schools will identify reading deficiencies earlier and provide evidence-based interventions to help students improve before they fall behind. The legislation also expands teacher training opportunities, increases classroom support for educators and establishes new expectations for colleges of education preparing Oklahoma’s future teachers. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, the House author for this legislation, said the new law implements strategic programs that have shown to prove real, data-driven results and takes a critical step in strengthening Oklahoma's student outcomes and future workforce.   “This was my top priority this session,” said Hilbert. “We have to follow the data and pursue policies that produce better outcomes for our students. The status quo has not been good enough, and this legislation is about ensuring every Oklahoma child has the strong foundation they need to succeed.” Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, the Senate author of the measure, affirms that parent involvement is key to the success of this legislation. “By identifying reading challenges early and providing meaningful, targeted support before students fall behind, we are ensuring children will be equipped to read to learn," said Pugh. "A major key to this legislation is involving parents in the process.  This legislation has been designed so Oklahoma will have the strongest literacy program in the country. We should not accept anything less than every single child being able to read at grade level. This measure ensures we are giving every child that opportunity.” The legislation received overwhelming bipartisan support in the Oklahoma Legislature. Based on Spring 2025 testing, just 27 percent of Oklahoma third graders are reading at or above grade level. Senate President Pro Temp Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, said the legislation establishes stronger expectations and support systems to help students achieve reading proficiency by third grade.  “Senate Bill 1778 is a major step forward in ensuring every Oklahoma child has the foundational reading skills they need to succeed," said Paxton. By setting clear expectations, strengthening early intervention and giving parents more involvement, we’re making it clear that reading proficiency by third grade is not optional, it’s essential. This legislation reflects a strong commitment to accountability and results, and I appreciate the overwhelming support from both chambers as the governor signs this today.” To support these reforms, the state budget includes significant investments in literacy initiatives, including more than $43 million for reading instruction and interventions in schools, $5 million in supplemental funding for teacher training academies this summer, and $5 million in ongoing annual funding for teacher training programs. Additional funding will support reading-at-home initiatives and statewide math and reading screeners to help educators identify student learning needs earlier.   “Reading paves the way for bright futures. That’s why I’m proud to sign a bill that helps ensure our kids learn this foundational skill by the end of third grade,”  said Governor Kevin Stitt. “This is about early support, strong instruction, and giving parents the information they need to keep their kids on track. Because with a strong foundation, the next generation of Oklahomans can chase their American Dream. I thank Speaker Hilbert and Senator Pugh for leading on this important issue.” The Strong Readers Act is designed to ensure students develop critical literacy skills early in their education, setting them up for long-term academic success and expanding opportunities for Oklahoma’s future workforce.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Reps. Eddy Dempsey, R-Valliant, Tim Turner, R-Kinta, and Rick West, R-Heavener, today offered their condolences for the family of LeFlore County Sheriff's Deputy Thomas "Walker" LeMay, who was killed Sunday while conducting a wellness check near Wister. Also injured was Wister Police Chief William "Andy" Thompson. "This is a tragedy for our entire area," the representatives said in a joint statement. "We know especially that these families are hurting as is the law enforcement community that served alongside this deputy who was killed and the police chief who was wounded. It's sad that our law enforcement have to risk their lives to keep the rest of us safe, but we're grateful for their bravery and faithfulness to perform their duties. This sacrifice will not be forgotten. We must pray for quick recovery for Chief Thompson and for the family of Deputy LeMay, and we must offer support in every way we can." Dempsey asked for a moment of silence on the House floor on Monday to say prayers and express throughs for those affected by this tragic shooting. West said it's his understanding the governor will order state flags to be flown at half-staff in Deputy LeMay's honor.  Dempsey and West serve House Districts 1 and 3, respectively, which include Wister and parts of LeFlore County. Turner serves House District 15, which also includes a portion of LeFlore County. According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the LeFlore County Sheriff's Office, Wister Police Department, the United Forest Service responded to the welfare check at a residence along U.S. Highway 270, near Wister. They were fired upon when arriving on the scene. An individual identified as the shooter has been arrested. Others assisting in the investigation included the Pocola Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Heavener Police Department, District 16 District Attorney's Office, Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department.

OKLAHOMA CITY – The 31st anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing was remembered in the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Monday with a special presentation. Reps. Rick West, R-Heavener, and Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, recognized a number of speakers who shared personal memories from April 19, 1995, and encouraging messages for the future. On that day, the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City was bombed, resulting in the deaths of 168 people. More than 850 others were injured. It is the worst domestic terrorist attack ever to occur in United States history. West also read House Resolution 1046 which recalls the events of the bombing and expresses gratitude to those who responded to the act of terrorism. West worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture at the time of the bombing. He lost seven co-workers that day. Each year that he's served as a state representative, he's presented a resolution in the House to remember his coworkers and others killed or injured in the bombing. "We owe it to ourselves, our children and our future generations to never forget what happened in Oklahoma City," West said. "We do this every year to remember those we loved who were killed, but also with the hope of building a better and more peaceful future. We must never let hatred and division define us. We seek love above all." Hefner, who represents a portion of Oklahoma City, and has participated in multiple remembrance ceremonies, said, "Today in the House, we remember April 19, 1995, and the 168 people who died. We remember the example given by how we responded as Oklahoman‘s on that day and after that day. Today, we listened to Justice Stephen Taylor. He reminded us of Better Conversations and the importance of listening, engaging, and leading with respect, even in the hardest moments." In addition to comments from Justice Taylor, Monday's floor presentation featured Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell who spoke about Oklahoma's response to the bombing. Senior Master Sergeant Brian Curtius with the Tulsa Air National Guard 138th Fighter Wing Fire Department, shared his experience as a first responder.  Also speaking was Kari Watkins, director of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, and Chris Fleming, the chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Memorial & Museum. They honored state agency survivors and family members and explained Journey of Hope, which teaches about the bombing to students in all 77 counties in Oklahoma and encourages Better Conversations to help students learn virtues like patience, humility and civility. Ronnie Fields, a Guthrie pastor whose mother was killed in the bombing, closed the ceremony with prayer. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – A measure by Rep. Marilyn Stark, R-Bethany, is now eligible to be heard on the House floor after advancing this past week from the House Health and Human Services Oversight Committee.  Senate Bill 933, also known as the Right to Try for Individualized Treatments Act, would allow eligible patients with life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses to access customized investigational treatments developed specifically for their genetic profile when no other approved options remain.  The measure establishes eligibility requirements for patients, including physician approval and informed consent, and allows treatment to be provided by manufacturers operating within approved facilities. Participation would be voluntary for manufacturers and the bill does not require insurance coverage for the treatments.  "We’re talking about people who are facing serious, often end-of-life situations where standard treatments just aren’t working," Stark said. "This gives them a chance to look at something more targeted and make that decision with their doctor."  The legislation also includes protections for health care providers and manufacturers acting in good faith and prohibits state entities from blocking a patient’s access to treatment.  SB933 passed the House Health and Human Services Oversight Committee unanimously and is now eligible for consideration on the House floor.

Rep. Tammy West, R-Oklahoma City, secured passage Tuesday of a measure that would allow expert testimony to be admissible in court when evidence of human trafficking is presented. Senate Bill 1810 would ensure qualified experts can explain how trafficking impacts a victim’s beliefs, behavior and perception, providing juries and judges with further context when evaluating cases. Currently, expert testimony is already permitted in domestic violence cases, and SB1810 extends that same standard to human trafficking prosecutions. "Human trafficking cases are complex, and victims often endure severe psychological trauma that can affect how they respond in court," West said. "This bill helps ensure that juries hear the full picture so justice can be properly served." In addition to evidentiary changes, the bill expands the scope of the Attorney General’s Victims Services Unit to better support survivors of human trafficking. Services may include counseling, case management, referrals and other critical resources to help victims recover and rebuild their lives. SB1810 passed the Government Oversight Committee unanimously on Tuesday and is eligible to be heard on the House floor. Its Senate author is Sen. Darrell Weaver, R-Moore. 

The Oklahoma House of Representatives today passed legislation that would submit a measure for a statewide ballot to give Oklahomans the lowest fixed cap on property tax increases in the entire country for homestead properties. The measure, Senate Joint Resolution 39, proposes amendments to the Oklahoma Constitution that would lower the caps on annual increases in the fair cash value of property and create a tiered system to better protect seniors from rising property taxes. The proposal will be submitted to voters at a statewide election on August 25, 2026. Under the proposal, the current caps on annual increases in fair cash value would be reduced beginning in tax year 2027. The cap for homestead property and agricultural land would decrease from 3 percent to 1.75 percent, while the cap for all other real property would decrease from 5 percent to 4 percent. “This ballot question would give Oklahomans the lowest fixed rate cap on personal property in the nation," said House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, who is the House author. "Oklahomans deserve real protection against the rapid rise in the value of their homes for tax purposes. At a time when families are already struggling to keep up with the cost of inflation, property taxes shouldn’t rise at the same pace as everything else.” The resolution also updates Oklahoma’s existing “senior freeze” by establishing a tiered cap structure for homestead property owned by seniors age 65 and older, based on household income relative to the median income in their county. Hilbert said the proposal is designed to provide broad property tax stability while directing the strongest protections to seniors with lower incomes. "Seniors often live on a fixed income, so tax relief for them ensures they are not priced out of their homes," said Hilbert. "This senior freeze is tiered so it does not disincentivize work, but also gives older Oklahomans much-needed tax relief."

The Oklahoma Legislature welcomed a delegation from Taiwan to the State Capitol this week. Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, introduced Director-General Yvonne Hsiao and Consul Michelle Lu from the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) on the House floor. The House also adopted House Resolution 1050, which highlights the 46 year sister-state partnership between Oklahoma and Taiwan. "Oklahoma shares a strong and enduring friendship with Taiwan," Pae said. "As we continue to grow our state’s economy, international partnerships like the one we share with Taiwan are more important than ever. This visit reinforces the importance of that relationship and opens the door for even greater collaboration in the years ahead." Sen. Roland Pederson, R-Burlington, hosted Hsiao and Lu in the Senate. "It was an honor to welcome our long-standing partners from the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office to the Capitol and recognize the strength of our relationship and the opportunities it continues to create for Oklahoma," Pederson said. "Our partnership with Taiwan continues to connect Oklahoma businesses to new markets and supports a mutually beneficial economic relationship." Last year, Pederson and Pae authored Senate Bill 209, which establishes the Taiwan Regional Trade Office under the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help connect Oklahoma-based businesses with new international opportunities.