The Latest in Oklahoma: October 31, 2025
Oklahoma landowners are increasingly resisting the spread of large-scale solar, wind, and data center projects that threaten to consume vast tracts of farmland. A proposed 5,000-acre solar farm near Porter, developed by NextEra Energy, has sparked fierce opposition from local residents who say it would erase agricultural land and disrupt their way of life. The dispute has landed in Wagoner County District Court, reflecting a broader statewide tension between rural communities and energy developers.
Oklahoma Human Services is preparing to furlough nearly 6,000 employees due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The agency announced the move in an internal email, citing a significant impact on its ability to operate and provide critical services. Officials expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging the hardship it places on staff and the vulnerable populations they serve. A final furlough plan is still being developed.
As the federal government shutdown threatens to cut off SNAP benefits for over 680,000 Oklahomans, state leaders are pushing for a special legislative session to provide emergency funding. Governor Kevin Stitt has so far declined to tap into the state’s $1.32 billion rainy day fund, instead calling on private organizations to help. Democratic lawmakers, tribal leaders, and advocacy groups argue this response is inadequate and are urging swift state action to prevent a hunger crisis. The Cherokee Nation has already committed funding to help affected families, but many warn the state must do more before the Nov. 1 deadline.
The Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) has appointed Shelby Humphrey as its new Executive Director. Humphrey brings over 26 years of experience with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, most recently serving as a Troop Commander. CLEET highlights his leadership and dedication to training and public safety as key strengths. Humphrey stated he is honored to serve Oklahoma’s law enforcement and private security communities and uphold CLEET’s mission
Oklahoma hospitals are bracing for $6.7 billion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade, threatening access to care in already vulnerable rural communities. Facilities like Stillwater Medical in Blackwell may be forced to reduce services or shut down entirely, impacting thousands who rely on them for lifesaving treatment. The cuts, part of a federal spending bill, will slash state-directed Medicaid payments beginning in 2028 and could also strip coverage from up to 171,000 Oklahomans. Local leaders and health officials warn the funding loss will deepen healthcare deserts and force difficult choices between care and survival.
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
“Continue to pray for each other, take care of each other — that’s what we do as Oklahomans.,” Senator Lankford said in regard to the government shut down. “We’ll continue to do the work. At this point, we’re doing the work we can to keep us going and trying to keep politics out of it, saying, let’s just open it. Even the federal employee unions have now stepped forward and said, just open it. Everybody gets your message. So we’ll keep doing our work. You keep praying and serving our neighbors. This affects millions of people all across the country.”