Oklahoma News
U.S. Supreme Court taking up Oklahoma Catholic charter school case: A proposed Catholic charter school that the Oklahoma Supreme Court struck down in June could be revived after the U.S. Supreme Court decided to take up the issue Friday. The high court set a March briefing schedule and said an hour would be allotted for oral argument. [NonDoc]
- U.S. Supreme Court to hear Oklahoma Catholic charter school case [Oklahoma Voice]
- Supreme Court to decide if public charter schools can be religious [USA Today via The Oklahoman]
- US Supreme Court to hear religious charter school case: What Oklahoma lawmakers are saying [The Oklahoman]
- U.S. Supreme Court to consider St. Isidore bid to become nation's first publicly funded religious school [KGOU]
- Supreme Court to Hear Oklahoma Religious Charter School Case [New York Times]
- Supreme Court to decide whether states can allow religious public schools [Washington Post]
- Supreme Court to weigh major clash between church and state [Politico]
Oklahoma education chief endorses immigration raids in schools: Oklahoma's top education official said he would support immigration enforcement raids in schools to assist with the White House's promise of mass deportations. Oklahoma schools Superintendent Ryan Walters said in a TV interview posted Friday that he would help the Trump administration in "any way they see fit" to carry out immigration enforcement, including ICE raids in schools. [Oklahoma Voice]
- Walters says agency would let ICE into schools to collect children whose parents are being deported [KGOU]
OKC Hispanic leaders: Rumors of local ICE raids not credible: Oklahoma City Hispanic leaders are debunking posts spreading on social media claiming that ICE raids are happening in the metro, saying they're causing harm. [KFOR]
Posts about ICE, immigration raids in Oklahoma City, metros stoke fears [The Oklahoman]
- Oklahoma attorney general unaware of any planned ICE raids at Oklahoma schools, despite Walters' support for idea [Tulsa World]
Is rural Oklahoma losing ground to the metros in Tulsa and OKC? A look at the trends: Since before statehood, jobs and population have gravitated toward what quickly became Oklahoma's two largest metropolitan areas. More recently, the two metros have been adding jobs at four times the rate for the rest of the state and growing in population twice as fast. [Tulsa World]
State Government News
How much money are Oklahoma agencies asking for this year? Some requests spark pushback: Of the 75 or so state agencies that are funded, in whole or in part, by the Oklahoma Legislature, most of them have filed either a flat budget request, or a request with a modest increase, for the upcoming legislative session. [The Oklahoman]
Legislative bills target Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, aim to reign in agency's power: Lawmakers have filed a number of bills aiming to overhaul how the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority operates. The legislation, which ranges from giving legislators the power to set toll rates to rerouting a proposed controversial turnpike route in the Norman area, comes as the agency has faced increased scrutiny for its multi-billion dollar expansion project. [Oklahoma Voice]
Drummond files third lawsuit in Osage County over 2021 winter storm utility rates: Last April, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond filed two lawsuits in Osage County District Court, claiming that Oklahomans were the victims of artificially inflated natural gas prices during the February 2021 winter storm known as Uri. Earlier this month, Drummond returned to Osage County for yet another lawsuit. [The Oklahoman]
OK state senator proposes two-parent home child tax credit, higher for kids born in wedlock: An Oklahoma state senator, among a list of bills aimed at "restoring moral sanity" in the state, has proposed tax credits for adoption as well as for children living in two-parent households. [The Oklahoman]
Up for debate: Marijuana delivery and purchase limits among Oklahoma bills filed in 2025: Oklahoma lawmakers have filed more than two dozen bills that would have a direct impact on the state's medical marijuana industry — and its customers. [The Oklahoman]
Opinion, Capitol Insider: Oklahoma Supreme Court hands victory to governor in legal dispute: The Oklahoma Supreme Court handed Governor Stitt a victory on Wednesday with a decision regarding the governor's authority to hire legal counsel. The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia sought this decision from the Oklahoma Supreme Court. [KGOU]
Opinion: Welcome to Oklahoma's political silly season, a period filled with ridiculous legislative ideas: Only a fraction of the 3,100 bills filed this session will likely become law because December and January of each year is the legislative period that I unaffectionately call "political silly season." Political silly season, mercifully, is a short but brutal period when legislators unveil all sorts of cockamamie ideas aimed at further stripping Oklahomans of their freedoms or attempting to insert governmental "assistance" in areas that we're doing perfectly well without it. [Janelle Stecklein / Oklahoma Voice]
Federal Government News
U.S. Department of Justice reconsidering challenge of Oklahoma's sweeping immigration law: The U.S. Department of Justice is reconsidering its lawsuit against Oklahoma's sweeping immigration law, House Bill 4156. State Attorney General Gentner Drummond says he's hopeful the law will be enforced soon. [KOSU]
- New administration means new look at OK immigration law [KFOR]
Congressional Hispanic Caucus members detail harms of Trump immigration agenda: Following a host of immigration-related executive actions from President Donald Trump and his vow to enact mass deportations, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Thursday highlighted how those policies would harm three specific groups — farm workers, immigrant families and so-called Dreamers. [Oklahoma Voice]
Trump pick for USDA secretary says she has 'a lot to learn' about bird flu: President Donald Trump's pick to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture said during her confirmation hearing Thursday that she has "a lot to learn" about highly pathogenic avian influenza or bird flu, the virus that's wreaking havoc on the country's poultry industry and dairy farms. [Oklahoma Voice]
Tuskegee Airmen Videos Shelved Over Trump's DEI Order: In a move that has left many scratching their heads, the Air Force has shelved training courses featuring the legendary Tuskegee Airmen and the trailblazing Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs). The reason? Compliance with the Trump administration's executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. [The Black Wall Street Times]
Tribal Nations News
Navajo Citizens Facing Identity Challenges During ICE Deportation Raids: The Trump administration's intensified deportation efforts have created unexpected challenges for Navajo citizens living in urban areas like Phoenix. As the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began widespread raids in major cities across the country following the start of President Donald Trump's second term, concerns have surfaced about Native Americans being mistaken for undocumented immigrants. [Native News Online]
- Navajo Nation leaders raise alarm over reports of Indigenous people being questioned and detained during immigration sweeps [CNN]
Tribes look to join DOJ suits against top attorneys who 'push the envelope' in Indian Country: Three Oklahoma tribal nations are requesting to join lawsuits filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against two Green Country district attorneys. [Public Radio Tulsa]
Muscogee Nation Chief touts multiple construction projects: As part of his annual State of the Nation address Saturday morning, Muscogee Nation Principal Chief David Hill said his administration will continue to build — both literally and figuratively. [Tulsa World]
American Indian Wills Clinic expands no-cost will, estate planning for Indigenous Oklahomans: Indigenous Oklahomans may face unique hurdles if legacy planning is ignored. An Oklahoma City University Law School clinic is expanding its reach to ensure those challenges are avoided by planning ahead. [KOSU]
Opinion, Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.: Why We Are Investing the Trust Settlement into Our Justice System: During most of the past two centuries, the country's failed federal Indian policy inflicted a great injustice on the Cherokee Nation. Here in the 21st century we fought back, prevailed, and are poised to fortify our own system of justice. [Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. / Native News Online]
Voting and Election News
Cheat sheet: Kirby, Tuccillo challenge Nash in Norman Ward 5: Voters in Norman City Council Ward 5 will have a choice between incumbent Michael Nash, challenger Trey Kirby and challenger Cindi Tuccillo on Feb. 11. [NonDoc]
Cheat sheet: Robinson, Coleman challenge Provo for Millwood Public Schools seat: In the Feb. 11 Millwood Public Schools Board of Education primary election, two challengers are running against incumbent District 5 member Marvin Provo, who first took office more than 25 years ago. [NonDoc]
Here are Oklahoma City Council candidates for Oklahoma City Wards 3 and 7: Oklahoma City voters will return to the polls in a few weeks to decide who will ll two seats on the OKC City Council in the upcoming election on February 11. [Oklahoma City Free Press]
Oklahoma lawmakers to consider early voting reform, photo ID requirements and more elections changes: Oklahoma lawmakers will consider several bills that could change voting procedures during the 2025 legislative session. Some would affect voters heading to the polls, like changing the identification accepted. Others seek to alter the responsibilities of the government and political parties. [KOSU]
Political notebook: State rep special election filing begins Monday: Filing for special elections to fill vacancies in two area House of Representatives districts will take place Monday through Wednesday in Oklahoma City. [Tulsa World]
Education News
Walters announces history standards update to comply with Trump executive order, details unclear: State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced in a Thursday press release his agency has updated history standards, "effective immediately," to comply with President Donald Trump's executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America and Mount Denali to Mount McKinley. [KOSU]
More students would be eligible for free meals if lawmakers approve bill: If passed into law, Senate Bill 28 would provide more students with free breakfasts and lunches by raising the income threshold for eligible families to 250% of the federal poverty line. That would amount to $64,550 for a family with two working parents and a child in school. [Tulsa World]
How can Oklahoma schools make higher education more affordable? A look at RUSO's latest strategy: Regional University System of Oklahoma regents approved an "Affordability and Transparency Framework." The concept will require each of RUSO's six universities to develop a three-year strategic plan, detailing how they will address both rising tuition costs and ensuring affordable access to higher education for Oklahomans. [The Oklahoman]
Opinion: It's time to modify how we pay teachers and student teachers: Teaching is demanding because our work isn't confined to the time of the school day or the space of our classroom. Teaching is purposeful because our impact isn't confined to that time and space, either. In fact, teachers hold both intrinsic and economic impact to us personally and collectively. [Rebecka Peterson / The Oklahoman]
Health News
Flu cases spiking in Oklahoma as hospitalizations rise: What to know about symptoms, treatment: Oklahoma has a high risk of contagious flu, and the numbers are only trending up, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. [The Oklahoman]
- Vaccine bills stack up in statehouses across the US [AP via KFOR]
Criminal Justice News
Oklahoma Attorney General requests prisoner transfer from Louisiana for execution: Attorney General Gentner Drummond requested Friday that a prisoner on Oklahoma's death row be transferred from federal prison in Louisiana so he can be executed. George John Hanson, 60, was convicted for the 1999 kidnapping and murder of 77-year-old Mary Bowles. [Oklahoma Voice]
- How Trump being back in the White House could lead to an execution in Oklahoma [The Oklahoman]
Criminal Justice Bills to Watch in This Year's Legislature: Oklahoma lawmakers filed dozens of criminal justice bills ahead of the Jan. 16 deadline, including ambitious proposals to establish a full-time Pardon and Parole Board and institute a death penalty moratorium. [Oklahoma Watch]
State Rep. raising questions on ODOC budget appropriations: The Department of Corrections is facing tough questions from lawmakers as the agency asks for flex benefits for employees, a debt service repayment, and body cameras. However, one representative questioned if this will help the staffing shortages, drug smuggling, fights and overdoses that have plagued Oklahoma prisons. [KFOR]
Housing & Economic Opportunity News
Homelessness organizations count Oklahoma City's unhoused population in frigid temperatures: Over a 24-hour time period every January, several homeless service organizations count residents experiencing homelessness in Oklahoma City. This provides a snapshot of homelessness in the community. This year's Point In Time count data likely won't be available for a few months, but data from recent years has shown a rise in the city's homeless population. [The Oklahoman]
Using rocks to discourage homeless camps have been criticized. How much do they cost OKC?: Nearly $44,000 in city funds have been used to place boulders underneath the Oklahoma City Boulevard bridge crossing Western Avenue as part of a deterrent strategy, officials said this week. [The Oklahoman]
Tulsa's housing shortage requires a change of culture, officials say: In Tulsa's race to build nearly 13,000 homes and apartments to solve the city's housing shortage, those involved say success is not a secret. Just look around at surrounding suburbs and rural areas that are building what they need. [Tulsa World]
- Tulsa officials respond to concerns about construction permitting process [Tulsa World]
Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt files bills for fair housing: Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt has filed two new bills that would address the tendencies in which evictions are handled - which many consider to be unfair. Senate Bill 815 would require records to be sealed as soon as an eviction case is dismissed - or found in favor of the defendant. Senate Bill 128 would give people more notice of eviction hearings. [KSWO]
- Senator files two bills to change Oklahoma eviction statutes [KFOR]
Economy & Business News
Trump says inflation isn't his top issue. So what will happen to consumer prices?: In Trump's first week back in the White House, there was little in his initial blitz of executive orders that directly tackled those prices, besides directing federal agencies to start "pursuing appropriate actions." He is taking steps to lower energy costs, something that Trump hopes will have ripple effects throughout the economy. Otherwise, his focus has been clamping down on immigration, which he described as his "No. 1 issue" shortly after taking the oath of office. [AP via KFOR]
Trump plans to unleash American Energy: How will it impact Oklahoma?: In Oklahoma, the country's fourth-largest renewable energy producer, local industry experts said they welcome more drilling and increased oil and natural gas production in the state. [The Oklahoman]
Few independent bookstores remain in Tulsa. Community helps them survive: The owners of Tulsa's Whitty Book announced the store, one of the few independent bookstores still in operation in Tulsa, would close Jan. 31. [Tulsa World]
Community News
'Focus: Black Oklahoma': mental health, Black History Saturdays, Bass Reeves' legacy (audio): This episode of Focus: Black Oklahoma features stories on mental health among Black youth, how a community education program is working to close education gaps and the legacy of Bass Reeves, one of the first deputy U.S. Marshals west of the Mississippi River. [KOSU & The Tri-City Collective]
5th Annual Black Wall Street Legacy Fest Returns to Greenwood: Once a thriving hub of Black excellence, Tulsa's Greenwood District will again hum with energy as over 10,000 people gather for the 5th annual Black Wall Street Legacy Fest on Saturday, May 31, 2025. This free public event and celebration of food, music, and dialogue pays tribute to the victims, survivors and descendants of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre and showcases Greenwood's unyielding spirit. [The Black Wall Street Times]
Edmond exposes and expunges 'the good, the bad and the ugly' of its past as a sundown town: Old racist restrictions on property deeds, city plats and other land development documents, including some of Edmond's pioneer developers, haven't been enforced for decades, but they linger on the books. In Edmond, they're being edited — corrected — on the public record, but not left to the garbage dump of the history of hate. The idea is to remember, lest official, socially sanctioned racism take hold again, not to forget, as if it never happened. [The Oklahoman]
Opinion: Get to know my north Tulsa to learn truth about our daily lives: When I think of north Tulsa, I think of home. Yes, it's true we struggle with our share of crime and boarded-up houses. Many of my neighbors are barely making ends meet. But there is more to our story, and it's time we start re-framing the narrative around what makes this community strong and worth investing in. [Tangela Ekhoff / Tulsa World]
Local Headlines
- OKC nonprofit takes over operation of Norman emergency shelter [KGOU]
- The phone scam involves spoofing caller ID, making it appear calls are from city of OKC [The Oklahoman]
