The Latest in Oklahoma: November 7, 2025
Oklahoma is vying for a share of a $50 billion federal fund aimed at transforming rural health care through the newly created Rural Health Transformation Program. State officials and health leaders gathered input from hundreds of stakeholders to craft a plan focused on workforce development, technology improvements, and addressing chronic disease. With looming Medicaid cuts, many rural hospitals and care providers see this funding as a lifeline to sustain operations and expand services. However, there’s concern over how the funds will be distributed and whether they’ll truly address the most urgent needs in underserved communities.
As the federal government shutdown halts SNAP benefits, Oklahoma is providing $1 million per week to its two main food banks.While the funding offers some relief, food bank leaders say it falls far short of the $30 million weekly impact SNAP had across the state. Demand for food assistance has surged, forcing organizations to exceed budgets and dip into reserves. Despite community support, food banks are overwhelmed and struggling to meet unprecedented need.
Residents near Hillsdale, Oklahoma, were overwhelmed by noxious fumes from an oil waste disposal site run by Nemaha Environmental Services, which had accepted hazardous material not covered by its permits. Complaints ranged from burning eyes to vomiting, prompting a shutdown and investigations by state regulators. Despite a $15,000 fine recommendation and ongoing cleanup, the company has a history of violations and is facing lawsuits and potential criminal investigation. Gaps in hazardous waste regulations allowed the incident to unfold with limited oversight, leaving the community frustrated and concerned about their health and safety.
Due to falling natural gas prices, Oklahoma’s two largest electric utilities, PSO and OG&E, are lowering customer bills by about $7 to $12 per month. PSO customers will see a 7% decrease, while OG&E bills will drop by nearly 5%. Both companies emphasize that they pass fuel savings directly to customers and do not profit from fuel charges. Despite these reductions, utilities face rising energy demands and workforce shortages, especially with the growth of AI data centers.
Interim Studies
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
“I was surprised because I really hadn’t ever paid that close of attention to how many Oklahomans are actually receiving SNAP benefits,” Senator Paxton said regarding learning about how many Oklahomans receive SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. “And you compare the state of Oklahoma with the rest of the nation. We’re in the top four in the nation as far as number, percentage-wise, number of our citizens that are on these SNAP benefits.”