Representative Mike Lay

R

District 68

Hi, I'm Mike Lay and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 68th District.

representative

News & Announcements

Mar 28, 2025
Recent Posts

House Passes Professions and Occupations Reform Act of 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill designed to improve training and standards for pharmacy technicians has passed the House floor today with a unanimous vote. House Bill 1585 , authored by Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks, creates the Oklahoma Professions and Occupations Reform Act of 2025, introducing new training requirements to ensure pharmacy technicians are better prepared to support Oklahomans in their healthcare.  “Our pharmacy technicians are on the front lines of healthcare, and they deserve the best training we can give them,” Lay said. “This bill is about making sure they’re ready for whatever comes their way, so they can provide the best care possible for the people they work with.”  HB1585 outlines a two-phase training process for pharmacy technicians. Technicians will need to complete Phase I before applying for an Oklahoma Pharmacy Technician permit and Phase II within 90 days after receiving the permit. Pharmacy managers will be responsible for creating and overseeing the training programs, which must be available for inspection by the Oklahoma Pharmacy Board.  “We want pharmacy technicians to feel supported and continue learning as they grow in their role,” Lay said. “This is a win for both the technicians and the Oklahomans they serve.”  The bill also requires newly hired technicians to document their training within 10 days of being hired. Those at least 18 years old and enrolled in approved youth apprenticeship or CareerTech programs can complete Phase II training even if they aren’t yet employed by a pharmacy.  With annual continuing education and strict documentation, HB1585 is designed to ensure technicians stay up-to-date with the skills they need throughout their careers.  HB1585 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

Mar 24, 2025
Recent Posts

House Approves Child Protection Bill with Unanimous Support

OKLAHOMA CITY – A measure designed to strengthen protections for children in qualified residential treatment programs has successfully passed the House with unanimous support. House Bill 2207 , authored by Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks, allows qualified residential treatment programs to petition for protective orders on behalf of children in their care against third parties who pose a physical or emotional threat. The legislation ensures courts expedite the review of these petitions to provide timely intervention for vulnerable children. “This bill is about giving children in residential care the protection they deserve,” said Rep. Mike Lay. “By allowing these facilities to take swift legal action against those who pose a threat, we are reinforcing our commitment to their safety and well-being.” The bill amends 10A O.S. 2021, Section 1-1-105, by defining “third party” as it relates to children and outlining the legal process for residential programs to seek protective orders. Facilities must provide evidence of harassment, abuse, neglect, exploitation or other harmful behaviors when filing a petition. HB2207, with a 92-0 vote, now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Mar 13, 2025
Recent Posts

Legislation Expanding Marriage Officiants Approved by House

OKLAHOMA CITY – A bill to expand the list of dignitaries eligible to perform marriage ceremonies in Oklahoma was approved by the Oklahoma House of Representatives. House Bill 2205 adds deacons and elders to the list of individuals authorized to solemnize marriages, alongside judges and ordained religious leaders. Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks, who authored the bill, emphasized that HB2205 provides more flexibility for Oklahomans seeking a trusted individual to officiate their wedding. The legislation also recognizes the important roles that church leaders play in the community.  “This bill reflects the values and traditions that are important to many Oklahomans, while also recognizing the diverse roles that church leaders play in the lives of our communities,” Lay said. “By expanding the list of dignitaries who can solemnize marriages, we are ensuring that more Oklahomans have the ability to choose someone they trust to officiate their marriage, all while preserving the integrity of the ceremony.”  The bill amends 43 O.S. 2021, Section 7, which outlines who can perform formal marriage ceremonies in the state. The change will allow deacons and elders to serve in this role, alongside other authorized religious leaders such as ministers, priests and rabbis.  The bill passed the House 80-5 and now proceeds to the Senate for consideration.