The Latest in Oklahoma: March 21, 2025
A&A Advocates
The Oklahoma Senate has passed Senate Bill 1027, introducing new regulations to the state’s initiative petition process. The bill limits the percentage of signatures from high-population counties and requires signature gatherers to be registered Oklahoma voters. Proponents argue it ensures broader statewide representation, while opponents believe it may restrict citizen participation in the democratic process.
Wildfires fueled by high winds and dry conditions have swept across parts of Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle, destroying hundreds of structures and prompting evacuations. The Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas, now the largest in state history, has burned over a million acres and crossed into Oklahoma, where fires have damaged homes and forced school closures. Emergency officials are working to contain the blazes, and while some rain has helped, high winds continue to pose a threat.
Oklahoma State University has laid off all staff at its Innovation Foundation following a scathing state audit that revealed mismanagement of $41 million in taxpayer funds. The audit found a lack of oversight, improper spending, and questionable contracts. OSU acknowledged the audit’s findings and announced plans to shut down the foundation, pledging to strengthen internal financial controls moving forward.
Governor Kevin Stitt is joining a lawsuit challenging Tulsa’s enforcement of municipal laws, including traffic laws, against tribal members. He argues that neither Tulsa nor the Muscogee Creek Nation properly represents the state’s interests and seeks to protect Oklahoma’s authority over law enforcement. Stitt’s motion cites a previous Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling affirming his right to intervene in such cases.
Up Next
The deadline for bills to pass out of the Oklahoma House and move to the Senate is March 27, 2025. Click here to see the legislative calendar.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“We’ll be rebuilding with all of Oklahoma,” Governor Stitt said in a social post displaying his property that had been scorched by the wildfires last week. “Oklahomans, we are in this together and we will build back stronger.”