The Latest in Oklahoma: August 2, 2024
A&A Advocates
Commissioner Kim David has called for an independent investigation into an incident involving Corporation Commission Chair, Todd Hiett. During a public meeting on Wednesday, allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behavior were brought to light. Hiett has admitted to struggling with an alcohol affliction but claims not to remember anything surrounding the alleged incident. Hiett has indicated that he will not resign, though he has been advised to take a leave of absence for the duration of the investigation.
A nonprofit known as SidexSide has stepped in to help fill employment gaps in overlooked talent areas in Oklahoma. This opportunity comes through a public-private partnership between SidexSide and Oklahoma Human Services, with financial backing and support from the Oklahoma Impact Investing Collaborative (Collaborative) and other charitable funds. This eight-week program is designed to allow participants to experience real-life “learn and earn” opportunities, and receive long-term job offers upon completion of the program. Public funds will only be used for successful outcomes.
The countdown has begun for Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment, BEAD, the largest high-speed internet expansion effort in Oklahomahistory. On Thursday, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration announced approval of the state’s Initial Proposal Volume II, which outlines the subgrantee selection process. The Oklahoma Broadband Office has one year from approval to complete the process and award eligible internet service providers, ISPs.
Kentucky Governor, and potential democrat VP candidate, Andy Beshear, stopped in Oklahoma City on Thursday to attend the Future Fund Banquet, hosted by the Oklahoma Democratic Party.
Welcome the newest member of A&A Advocates!
McKenna Perrin
McKenna began her career in public policy in 2020 at The Oklahoma House of Representatives. While working for the House, McKenna served in various capacities, including policyadvising, legislative assistance, fiscal transparency analytics, as well as bill processing and encoding. Following her time at the House, McKenna joined the Executive Branch as a Policy Analyst for Governor Kevin Stitt, Secretary of State Josh Cockroft, and former Secretary of State Brian Bingman. Prior, McKenna attended Oklahoma State University. Go Pokes!
Interim Studies
All House and Senate interim study requests have been approved and assigned to committees. View the full list of House interim studies here and Senate interim studies here.