The Latest in Oklahoma: October 3, 2025
A&A Advocates
House Speaker Kyle Hilbert announced committee assignments for the 60th Oklahoma Legislature, emphasizing the importance of leadership continuity and legislative experience. Hilbert highlighted the work ahead in areas like education, health care, and the economy, noting that the chosen chairs and vice chairs reflect a balance of policy expertise and regional representation. He expressed confidence that the new leadership team would help drive meaningful progress for the state. The assignments include both returning leaders and new faces stepping into key roles.
Governor Kevin Stitt’s initial choice for Oklahoma secretary of state, Donelle Harder, was unable to assume the role because she did not meet the constitutional requirement of living in the state for ten consecutive years. As a result, Stitt appointed his general counsel, Ben Lepak, as interim secretary of state. Harder acknowledged the issue publicly and will remain in the governor’s office in another capacity. She has been a longtime adviser to Stitt and was previously deputy secretary of state.
Sen. Adam Pugh, a Republican and chair of the Senate Education Committee, announced his candidacy for Oklahoma state superintendent in the 2026 election. Pugh emphasized his firsthand experience as a parent with children in public school and outlined priorities like improving literacy and increasing principal training. He enters a crowded race with several other candidates from both major parties and independents. Known for his legislative work on teacher pay raises, maternity leave, and extending the school year, Pugh promised a service-oriented approach focused on students, parents, and educators.
In a recent interim study led by Rep. Danny Williams, lawmakers examined the impact of Oklahoma’s ad valorem tax system and potential reforms. Agriculture Secretary Blayne Arthur emphasized the financial pressure on family farms and supported targeted tax relief over full repeal to preserve rural stability. The Oklahoma Tax Commission cautioned that eliminating property taxes on homes and agricultural land could create a $1.5 billion shortfall, disrupting funding for schools and local governments. Lawmakers also explored alternatives, including a tax on services, but flagged concerns around volatility, fairness, and administrative complexity—highlighting the need for a carefully balanced approach.
Interim Studies
The interim study period began on August 1, 2025 and will end November 6, 2025.
Click to view the House and Senate interim studies.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“We’ll lead with honesty and respect,” Lindel Fields said after being appointed the new state superintendent by Governor Stitt. “I believe in the principle ‘Do what you say. Say what you mean. Don’t say it mean.’ That’s how we’ll operate as a state agency, and that’s how we’ll treat one another.”