The Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that State Question 843, a proposal to phase out property taxes for homeowners with a homestead exemption by 2029, is unconstitutional. The majority found that the proposal conflicts with the Oklahoma Constitution’s requirements for assessing real property for taxes. Dissenting justices argued that the court should not strike down an initiative before voters have a chance to decide on it, warning that doing so limits the people’s constitutional right to vote on petitions. The ruling comes as taxes remain a major issue ahead of Oklahoma’s midterm elections.
Oklahoma Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt is proposing land banks as a way to address the state’s affordable housing shortage by redeveloping vacant and abandoned properties. Land banks could help cities and counties resolve issues such as unpaid taxes, unclear ownership, and legal claims before transferring properties to private developers for workforce or affordable housing. Kirt argues that this approach could create more starter homes, reduce neighborhood blight, and benefit both urban and rural communities.
Republican Mike Mazzei and Democrat Cyndi Munson faced off in a debate ahead of Oklahoma’s 2026 gubernatorial election, discussing education, healthcare, affordability, immigration, and other major issues. Mazzei emphasized lowering costs through tax cuts, including eliminating the state income tax, while Munson focused on bipartisan leadership and bringing lawmakers together to address Oklahoma’s challenges. The debate was pre-recorded so Mazzei could attend a rally with President Donald Trump, and the election is scheduled for November 3.
Oklahoma has received more than $9.5 million in federal funding to continue home visiting services for pregnant women, parents, and young children. The voluntary program connects families with trained professionals who provide support with parenting, child development, education, employment, and financial or housing stability. The funding increased by more than $800,000 from last year due to Oklahoma’s investment of matching state funds. Research cited by the program suggests home visiting can improve birth outcomes and school readiness while reducing the risk of child abuse and neglect.
Weekly Wrap Up
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October 30, 2026: Interim studies must be heard in committee
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Aerospace and defense is helping move Oklahoma toward our goal of becoming a Top 10 state,”Governor Kevin Stitt said regarding a new study released by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA). “This $52.5 billion impact shows we have the workforce, military assets, and pro-business environment to compete for more jobs, more investment, and more opportunity for Oklahoma families.”