The Latest in Oklahoma: July 4, 2025
A&A Advocates
Arnold Ventures released a statement applauding the Senate’s passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which bundles multiple reforms into a single legislative package. The organization praised the bill for advancing evidence-based policies that improve public safety, reduce recidivism, and support communities. Arnold Ventures highlighted its long-standing advocacy for such reforms and commended lawmakers for their bipartisan cooperation. The group encouraged the House to act quickly to finalize the legislation and deliver positive change nationwide.
About 100 new laws went into effect in Oklahoma on July 1, covering issues such as school safety, increased penalties for package theft, and medical marijuana regulation. The laws also address areas like tax credits, mental health services, and traffic rules. Lawmakers say these measures aim to strengthen public safety, support education, and improve healthcare access. The changes reflect a broad legislative push to respond to community priorities across the state.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled 6–3 that Muscogee Nation citizen Alicia Stroble is subject to state income taxes, rejecting her appeal to extend the McGirt v. Oklahoma decision into civil and tax matters. The court held that McGirt applies only to criminal jurisdiction under the Major Crimes Act and declined to broaden it to exempt tribal members from state income tax. Several concurring opinions emphasized the potential chaos and uncertainty that extending McGirt to civil law could cause, while the dissent argued the decision ignored established federal precedent protecting tribal members from state taxation within Indian Country. The ruling may head to the U.S. Supreme Court for further clarification on tribal sovereignty and civil jurisdiction.
Oklahoma’s state tax revenue for the past 12 months totaled $16.92 billion, reflecting a slight year-over-year increase of 0.2%, with June 2025 monthly revenue up 3.3% compared to last year. Income tax collections rose significantly both yearly and monthly, while sales tax declined on an annual basis but saw modest monthly gains. The Business Conditions Index in June measured 50.6, showing stable business activity, and Oklahoma’s unemployment rate was 3.1%, below the national average. State Treasurer Todd Russ highlighted the revenue rebound as a positive indicator of economic resilience heading into fiscal year 2026.
Interim Studies
Upcoming Deadlines
07/25/25: Deadline for the Speaker to announce approved House studies.
10/31/25: Deadline for Senate studies to be completed.
Click here to view the approved Senate interim studies.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“With this legislation, we’re making it clear: Oklahoma doesn’t just plan to compete—we plan to lead,” Lt. Governor Matt Pinell said regarding the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority merging into the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics. “By harnessing our robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and rising prominence in aerospace innovation, we’re opening the door to new investment, high-quality jobs, and long-term technological leadership.”