The Latest in Oklahoma: January 10, 2025
A&A Advocates
Oklahoma Senate and House leaders have announced committee structures and assignments ahead of the 60th Legislative Session starting February 3, 2025. Senate Pro Tem-Elect Lonnie Paxton and House Speaker-Elect Kyle Hilbert emphasized priorities like agriculture, publicsafety, and education while revamping oversight and leadership roles to better address state needs and align with public priorities.
Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure to support the state’s workforce and drive economic growth during remarks highlighting 2025 priorities. Pinnell identified key infrastructure areas, including transportation, broadband expansion, and water systems, as critical to attracting businesses and improving quality of life for Oklahomans. He stressed the need for bipartisan efforts to modernize infrastructure and foster economic development, positioning Oklahoma as a competitive destination for industries and job seekers.
Oklahoma State Senator Shane Jett has introduced the “Bitcoin Freedom Act,” a bill aimed at recognizing Bitcoin as legal tender in the state. The legislation seeks to enable individuals and businesses to conduct transactions in Bitcoin, protect Bitcoin miners from discrimination, and ensure that Oklahoma fosters a pro-Bitcoin environment. Jett framed the bill as a step toward economic innovation and sovereignty, emphasizing Oklahoma’s potential to lead in the digital currency space.
Opponents of green energy rallied at the Oklahoma Capitol to voice their criticism of renewable energy projects, particularly wind farms, which they argue harm the environment, burden taxpayers, and strain local resources. Organized by Republican lawmakers and advocacy groups, the rally called for an end to state subsidies for wind energy and highlighted issues such as land use conflicts and the impact on wildlife. Speakers, including state officials and citizens, emphasized a preference for traditional energy sources like oil and gas, citing their economic importance to Oklahoma.
Committee Assignments
The House and Senate have organized and handed out their committee assignments ahead of the 2025 legislative session. Click the links to view committee assignments for the House and Senate.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I will do everything in my power to ensure the integrity and honor of the Senate is upheld and will always do what is right for the citizens of the state of Oklahoma,” said newly elected Senate Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton. “Together, we have proven that when the Oklahoma Senate works with purpose, determination, and unity, we can deliver results that positively impact the lives of Oklahomans.”