Jeff Elkins

1 week ago | journalrecord.com | Jeff Elkins

Summary:– SB 480 lets private firms build and manage power generation. – Supporters say it could attract billions in investment and jobs. – Measure aims to relieve grid pressure and speed project timelines. OKLAHOMA CITY — The Senate author of a measure allowing private industry to develop and manage their own power solutions says it will bring opportunities for billions of dollars in new economic development in Oklahoma.

1 week ago | journalrecord.com | Jeff Elkins

Summary:– Oklahoma Comic Arts Festival debuts Sept. 13 at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. – Free family-friendly event features workshops, panels and comic creators. – Guests include artists from “Uncanny X-Men,” “Superman 77” and “Heart of the City.”OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Comic Arts Foundation has teamed up with the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center to highlight the art form and meet creators through an inaugural event this fall.

1 week ago | journalrecord.com | Jeff Elkins

Summary:– Gov. Stitt vetoed a bill expanding insurance coverage for diagnostic mammograms. – The bill passed overwhelmingly but faces opposition over insurance mandates. – Lawmakers may override the veto as session nears its end. OKLAHOMA CITY — A bill that would expand diagnostic mammography access was vetoed by Gov. Kevin Stitt Wednesday, but strong bipartisan support for it could mean an override in the last weeks of the 2025 session.

1 week ago | journalrecord.com | Jeff Elkins

Summary:– Senate Bill 796 bans state funding for DEI programs at Oklahoma public colleges. – The bill also prohibits mandatory DEI training and ideological statements. – Lawmakers debated impacts on equity, with the bill passing 77-18. OKLAHOMA CITY — An Oklahoma Senate bill banning public colleges and universities from funding diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives with state dollars is headed to Gov. Kevin Stitt’s desk.

1 week ago | journalrecord.com | Jeff Elkins

Summary:– Lawmakers question the Oklahoma mental health agency over a $23 million payroll shortfall. – Agency leaders cite financial mismanagement and call for audits. – Legislators vow to cover payroll but delay other funding requests. OKLAHOMA CITY — A fourth meeting between a legislative committee and the state mental health department Monday regarding agency finances left lawmakers with more questions as the end of the regular session draws near.