Oklahoma Republican lawmakers unveiled a $12.8 billion state budget that aligns with Gov. Kevin Stitt’s priorities and aims to end the legislative session early. The plan includes major investments in a new long-term savings fund, Medicaid services, education, infrastructure, and mental health, though it falls short of agency funding requests. Republican leaders emphasized fiscal control and economic growth, while Democrats criticized the process as lacking transparency and excluding broader input.
The Oklahoma Senate unanimously advanced Senate Bill 1565, which would allow the state to access federal grant funding to improve maternal health through Medicaid. The bill focuses on expanding services such as nutrition support and comprehensive care during pregnancy and postpartum to improve outcomes for mothers and babies. It follows a federal model that emphasizes whole-person care and requires no state funding. If approved by the House, the program would position Oklahoma among a select group of states working to strengthen maternal health services.
The Oklahoma House passed House Bill 4294 to expand insurance coverage and treatment access for people with epilepsy, sending it to the Senate for consideration. The bill would require equal insurance coverage, prevent denial based on an epilepsy diagnosis, and ensure access to medically necessary neurostimulation devices. Supporters say it will help more than 41,000 Oklahomans receive better care and reduce barriers to effective treatment.
Oklahoma’s candidate filing period is underway, giving individuals a three-day window to officially enter races for federal, state, county, and local offices. A wide range of candidates have already filed for positions including governor, U.S. Senate, congressional seats, and numerous state legislative roles. The early filings show competitive races across both major parties, with some high-profile names entering key contests. The filing process will determine who appears on the ballot for the upcoming elections and can be tracked through the state election board.
Weekly Wrap Up
Upcoming Deadlines
04/09: Deadline for Sbs/SJRs out of Policy Committees & Appropriation Subcommittees
04/23: Deadline for SBs/SJRs out of Oversight, Admin Rules, Appropriations & Rules Committees
04/23: Deadline to report House measures from Senate committees
05/07: Deadline for Third Reading and Final Passage of Bills and Joint Resolutions from opposite chamber
To see the full legislative calendar, click the link to view the House Calendar and Senate Calendar.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Their expertise and experiences will greatly benefit our state system and the students we serve,” Chancellor Sean Burrage said regarding Gov. Stitt’s appointments of Brian Beller and Trevor Pemberton to the State Regents for Higher Education. “We look forward to their service as State Regents.”