The Latest in Oklahoma: December 13, 2024
A&A Advocates
Reps. Amanda Swope, D-Tulsa, and Mark Vancuren, R-Owasso, are leaving the Oklahoma Legislature for roles in Tulsa-area government. Swope will join Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols’ administration as director of tribal policy and partnerships. Vancuren will serve as deputy commissioner for newly elected Tulsa County District 2 Commissioner Lonnie Sims. Their departures will prompt special elections to fill their legislative seats, with Gov. Kevin Stitt required to announce election dates within 30 days of the vacancies.
Reps. Tom Gann, Kevin West, and Rick West are continuing their legal efforts regarding Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett’s involvement in cases despite alleged ethics violations. After the Oklahoma Supreme Court denied their petition to prohibit Hiett from hearing certain cases, they submitted additional evidence to the Oklahoma Ethics Commission, detailing over 15 new alleged violations of Ethics Rule 4.7. The lawmakers also filed an appeal at the Supreme Court to overturn a $127 million rate increase for OG&E, citing Hiett’s decisive vote and alleged misconduct involving OG&E attorneys. They argue for stricter audit standards for utilities’ Winter Storm bonds, criticizing the Corporation Commission’s auditing methods.
Oklahoma lawmakers are urging greater oversight of turnpike toll increases by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA), citing concerns about rising costs for drivers. Critics argue that the current toll adjustment process lacks transparency and disproportionately impacts residents who rely on turnpikes for daily commutes. Lawmakers propose increased legislative review and stricter accountability measures for the OTA, including requiring detailed justifications for toll hikes.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) has proposed a policy that would track students’ immigration status during school enrollment, a move drawing criticism from immigrant advocates and legal experts. The proposed rule mandates that families declare whether children are U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or undocumented immigrants, with school districts required to report the data to the state. The proposal is expected to face public hearings and potential legal challenges.
Merry Christmas
The team at A&A Advocates wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
—Dennis, Haley, Alex, Bailey, and McKenna
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“The activity happening in New Jersey and across the country is unsettling. While we’ve only had a few reports of drone activity in Oklahoma, we want to be ready in case the need arises,” Commissioner Tim Tipton said. “I’m glad Governor Stitt takes this threat seriously and will equip the Department of Public Safety adequately.”