The Latest in Oklahoma: March 7, 2025
A&A Advocates
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has dismissed State Superintendent Ryan Walters’ request for a legal opinion on President Donald Trump’s recent executive order aimed at curbing taxpayer-funded services to undocumented immigrants. Drummond characterized the request as “manufactured political drama,” emphasizing that the interpretation and implementation of federal executive orders fall under federal jurisdiction, not state authorities. He advised Walters to collaborate with federal agencies in executing the order and to concentrate on enhancing Oklahoma’s educational outcomes.
An audit of Oklahoma State Universityuncovered $41 million in mismanaged state funds, revealing unauthorized transfers, co-mingling of funds, and policy violations, including $11.5 million improperly sent to the OSU Innovation Foundation without approval. The findings have raised concerns over financial oversight, prompting calls for corrective action to ensure compliance with state laws and university policies.
Oklahoma State Representative Andy Fugate has appealed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court after an Oklahoma County judge dismissed his lawsuit challenging Governor Kevin Stitt’s executive order mandating state employees return to in-office work. The initial dismissal was based on Fugate’s lack of standing, with the judge suggesting such disputes should be resolved through the political process. Fugate contends that the governor overstepped his authority, asserting that decisions regarding state employee work arrangements fall under legislative jurisdiction.
Senator James Lankford has expressed concerns regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) recent actions affecting federal operations in Oklahoma. He highlighted that while the government may have the legal authority to terminate employees, such decisions should be made judiciously to avoid disrupting essential services. Specifically, Lankford noted that significant layoffs at facilities like Tinker Air Force Base and the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant could severely impair their operational capabilities.
Quick Numbers
LegisOK – After coding dormant bills, there are 1,206 left alive, 518 HBs and 506 SBs, plus one SJR and one HJR. In other words, 2,038 bills are dormant until the start of the 2026 Session
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“The JNC, which is supposed to be an independent body, lacks the transparency necessary to inspire public trust,” Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton said in a press release this week. “It’s time to shift toward a process where elected officials, who are accountable to the voters, are directly involved in the selection of judges. With the Senate’s role in confirming judges, Oklahomans will have a better understanding of who is being appointed and how decisions are made.”