The Latest in Oklahoma: October 18, 2024
A&A Advocates
The Oklahoma Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on November 12 regarding a lawsuit filed against Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Todd Hiett. The lawsuit, brought by three state representatives, accuses Hiett of improper conduct, citing incidents of public intoxication and inappropriate behavior at work-related events involving people from companies regulated by the commission. Hiett has stepped down as chairperson but continues to face calls for resignation.
Oklahoma emergency teams are helping Florida recover after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Crews from various Oklahoma agencies, including emergency managers, linemen, and rescue teams, are assisting in power restoration and storm relief efforts. Many have been stationed in places like Tampa and Polk County. The teams have dealt with tree damage and other destruction caused by the storms.
The Oklahoma grand jury released a report accusing Gov. Kevin Stitt and State Superintendent Ryan Walters of mismanaging over $8 million in federal education funds during the pandemic. While no criminal activity was found, the jury condemned bypassing the Oklahoma State Department of Education, then led by Joy Hofmeister, and recommending stricter federal fund management processes.
Oklahoma, along with 19 other states, is suing the federal government over a new nursing home staffing requirement introduced by the Biden administration. The rule mandates minimum staffing levels in nursing homes, including requiring a registered nurse on-site 24/7 and setting minimum care hours per resident. Critics, including Oklahoma’s Attorney General, argue the rule exceeds federal authority and could lead to nursing home closures, especially in rural areas.
Update on Interim Studies
Interim studies continue to provide space for debate and research. To see updates, click the links to view House studies and Senate studies.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Their right is to go vote and feel safe doing that,” Grady County Sheriff Gary Boggess said in regard to increased security at Grady County polling locations in wake of foiled voting-day terrorist attack. “We want to make sure that our citizens know that we’re there and we’re going to protect them, and we’re going to keep them as safe as we can.”