The Latest in Oklahoma: February 21, 2025
A&A Advocates
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt remains confident that an income tax cut is possible despite an expected revenue shortfall. He argues that lowering taxes will help attract businesses and residents, boosting economic growth. Stitt emphasized that Oklahoma has a large savings account and a strong economy, making a tax cut feasible. However, legislative leaders remain cautious, with some expressing concerns about cutting taxes while facing a potential budget gap. The debate over tax policy will be a key issue in the upcoming legislative session.
Former Oklahoma House Speaker Charles McCall has announced his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race, joining Attorney General Gentner Drummond and entrepreneur Leisa Mitchell Haynes in seeking the Republican nomination. In his announcement, McCall emphasized his commitment to defending Oklahoma’s values against what he describes as liberal attacks. The primary election is scheduled for June 16, 2026, with the general election set for November 3, 2026.
The Oklahoma House of Representatives has passed House Bill 2728, known as the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2025, with an 86-3 vote. Authored by Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, the bill aims to enhance legislative oversight of state agency regulations by requiring all proposed rules to include an economic impact statement. Notably, any regulation projected to cost $1 million or more over five years would need separate legislative approval before implementation. The legislation also proposes establishing the Legislative Economic Analysis Unit (LEAU) within the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency (LOFT) to independently review these economic impact statements. This move seeks to ensure that elected representatives, rather than unelected agencies, have the final say on significant regulations. The bill now advances to the Oklahoma Senate for further consideration.
Deadline Week
After a busy deadline week, the legislature continues to move legislation through various committees and subcommittees. Click here to search up the status of any bill.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“We will work to establish a new federal/state fiscal partnership to develop an acceptable plan to realize savings while maintaining critical services necessary to protect Oklahoma’s way of life,” new Senior Advisor of Oklahoma DOGE, Marc Nuttle, said. “My mission is simple: to ensure every tax dollar is spent strategically with purpose and accountability. Time is of the essence.”