The Latest in Oklahoma: November 14, 2025
Oklahoma’s October 2025 revenue report shows total collections reaching $1.45 billion, a 4.4 percent increase over the previous year, driven largely by strong sales tax and energy revenues. Treasurer Todd Russ said the numbers indicate steady consumer spending and continued economic stability despite a slight month-to-month dip. Oil and gas revenue rose nearly 17 percent year-over-year, and the state’s unemployment rate remains well below the national average. Overall, Russ said the trends point to a balanced and resilient state economy.
The Statewide Official Compensation Commission has approved large salary increases for several Oklahoma elected officials, including doubling the state superintendent’s pay from $124,373 to $250,000. Other positions, such as the insurance commissioner, state treasurer, attorney general, and corporation commissioners, will also receive raises of $50,000 to more than $60,000. Some lawmakers criticized the process as rushed and poorly prepared, noting the commission has met only twice and suggesting the legislature may need to take back authority over pay decisions. The governor received the smallest raise, creating what critics call an unusual pay gap between the state’s top elected offices.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled that state agency heads are allowed to serve simultaneously in the governor’s cabinet, overturning a 2024 opinion from Attorney General Gentner Drummond. The 7–2 decision sided with Gov. Kevin Stitt, who argued that dual service improves efficiency and has been standard practice for decades. Drummond’s earlier opinion had prompted several officials, including the transportation secretary and lieutenant governor, to resign from their cabinet roles.
Rep. Forrest Bennett, a Democrat from Oklahoma City, announced he will resign from the state House after being elected president of the Oklahoma State AFL-CIO,which represents more than 100,000 workers across 230 unions. Bennett said he will step down in the coming weeks because his new role requires him to lobby lawmakers, creating an ethical conflict. He called serving District 92 the honor of a lifetime and emphasized that his commitment to his community will remain strong. Once his resignation is official, Gov. Kevin Stitt will have 30 days to set a special election to fill the seat.
Upcoming deadlines
12/05 Deadline for Senate Bill requests, drafting of House Bills, and Joint Resolutions.
To see the full legislative calendar, click the link to view the House Calendar and Senate Calendar.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“It was a fight that should’ve never happened. We’re at the exact same spot we were 41 days ago that we finished last night in the Senate,” Senator Mullin said in regard to the government shutdown at the Tulsa Veterans Day parade. “Either way, it’s over with. Let’s get moving on and get the country moving on.”