Representative Erick Harris

R

District 39

Hi, I’m Erick Harris and I represent the people of Oklahoma’s 39th District.

representative

News & Announcements

May 22, 2024
Recent Posts

Governor Signs Bill to Simplify Vehicle Transfers for Small Businesses

On Monday, Gov. Stitt signed legislation that will address a significant challenge that Oklahoma small business owners face. House Bill 3618, authored by Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, allows the transfer of a motor vehicle title with an active lien from a commercial lender to an individual's business entity. "Currently, small business owners in Oklahoma often have to take out personal loans to purchase vehicles necessary for their operations," Harris said. "While this arrangement may work initially, complications arise as the business expands and additional vehicles are needed." Under existing state law, transferring a vehicle with an active lien to the business entity is prohibited. HB3618 seeks to eliminate this obstacle by allowing the transfer of business assets, such as vehicles, into the business entity's name despite existing liens. "A constituent brought this issue to my attention, and I recognized its impact on thousands of small businesses across Oklahoma," Harris said. "This legislative change will allow small businesses to continue growing and investing in our state, ensuring they have the resources necessary for success." HB3618 will go into effect on Nov. 1.

May 7, 2024
Recent Posts

Governor Signs Alanda's Law

Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, today celebrated the signing of Alanda's Law, House Bill 2478, which expedites the legal process for victims of domestic abuse seeking temporary relief in custody cases. Under HB2478, courts are required to schedule a hearing on temporary custody orders within 10 days of a domestic abuse victim filing a request for temporary custody orders unless both parties mutually agree to waive this timeline. Harris said this provision specifically applies in cases where the application contains allegations of domestic abuse and either an emergency temporary protective order is already in place against the accused party or the accused has been criminally charged with domestic abuse. "For victims of domestic violence, the timing of a judge's availability should not be a barrier," Harris said. "It is crucial to ensure that domestic violence victims appear timely before a judge to expedite the decision-making process." The measure will require the court to issue a ruling on the matter versus arbitrarily scheduling another hearing for a later date, enhancing the efficiency and responsiveness of legal proceedings in these critical situations. "Often, children are involved in these situations," Harris said. "It is imperative that judges swiftly act to ensure families avoid unnecessary heartache during an already traumatic time." Harris named HB2478 Alanda's Law after Alanda Bradshaw, a victim of domestic abuse, in honor of her memory and her beautiful daughter. He said the sustained abuse Alanda endured tragically contributed to her premature passing. "I hope this legislation will honor Alanda and other victims of domestic abuse," Harris said. "The most dangerous moment for a domestic violence victim is when they try to leave their abuser. Alanda's Law protects victims and their families during this critical time." HB2478 will go into effect on Nov. 1.

Apr 18, 2024
Recent Posts

House Bill Aimed at Oklahoma Contracting Integrity Receives Senate Approval

The Oklahoma Senate passed House Bill 3623 on Wednesday, a measure that aims to prevent public funds from supporting illegal immigration, thereby enhancing accountability and integrity in contracting practices in Oklahoma. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, authored the measure. The bill would require all contractors or subcontractors who contract with the state or a public employer to submit an affidavit to the State Purchasing Director affirming compliance with the state's E-Verify requirements. "With House Bill 3623, Oklahoma reinforces its commitment to fiscal accountability, ensuring that no public dollar is used to support illegal immigration," Harris said. "E-Verify compliance mandates not only uphold the principles of fairness and transparency but also strengthen the trust of our citizens in the integrity of our workforce and immigration processes." This system is designed to verify the citizenship status of all new employees, ensuring adherence to legal standards. Under HB3623, contractors who knowingly provide false affidavits will face civil penalties. The first offense will result in an administrative penalty of $5,000, increasing by $2,000 for each subsequent violation. Additionally, contractors who breach this mandate risk having their contracts terminated. Sen. Weaver, R-Moore, carried the measure in the Senate. "By holding contractors and subcontractors accountable through this legislation, we're ensuring Oklahomans' hard-earned tax dollars are not supporting the employment of individuals who are not authorized to work in our state," Weaver said. "I am appreciative of my Senate colleagues for passing this measure out of our chamber and putting us one step closer to having these protections in place. I'd also like to thank Representative Harris for his collaboration on this measure that makes sure Oklahoma citizens are prioritized in our state's job market." HB3623 is Harris' first bill to pass both chambers. It passed the Senate 39 – 5 and now heads to the Governor for consideration.