Sen. Dusty Deevers

Maddy summarySB 2156 modifies Oklahoma's individual income tax rates for 2024 and 2025, lowering the top tax rate to 4.75% for single filers and 3.75% for married couples filing jointly on income above specific thresholds. The bill affects all Oklahoma residents and nonresidents with taxable income who file individual tax returns. It also eliminates certain duties previously required of the State Board of Equalization. The changes apply only to tax returns filed for 2024 and 2025.

Maddy summaryThis constitutional amendment (SJR 36) would create a phased property tax exemption for honorably discharged veterans and unremarried surviving spouses in Oklahoma. It provides increasing tax relief on household personal property and homesteads over four years: 25% in 2027, 50% in 2028, 75% in 2029, and full exemption by 2030. Eligibility requires Oklahoma residency and certification of honorable discharge (or surviving spouse status), expanding current exemptions beyond only disabled veterans. The amendment must be approved by voters as a constitutional change, not enacted by the legislature directly.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SJR 35) proposes a constitutional referendum to repeal specific sections of the Oklahoma Constitution that govern ad valorem property taxes. It would eliminate the constitutional basis for property taxes statewide, affecting all property owners and local taxing jurisdictions. The resolution also amends Section 21 of Article X to revise the duties of the State Board of Equalization, removing its role in assessing property valuation. The proposal requires voter approval through a statewide referendum, with the effective date set for January 1, 2031. This is a procedural step to initiate a public vote on constitutional changes, not an immediate policy change.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Oklahoma statutes to allow municipal and school district bond elections to be held on any November state or federal election day, regardless of whether the year is odd or even. It directly affects cities and school districts that need to hold bond elections for infrastructure or capital projects. The key change modifies existing rules (in 11 O.S. §16-112 and 70 O.S. §15-102) to remove previous restrictions on election timing, aligning bond votes with regular election cycles. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026, and was declared an emergency measure.

Maddy summaryThis proposed constitutional amendment would guarantee Oklahomans the right to grow their own food and purchase food from any source they choose, without government restriction. It would add a new Section 38 to the Oklahoma Constitution stating: "The right of a citizen of Oklahoma to cultivate food and to purchase food from the source of his or her choice shall not be infringed." The amendment requires voter approval before taking effect.

Maddy summarySB 1850 requires most Oklahoma employers to verify new employees' work authorization using the federal E-Verify system within three business days of hiring. Employers must provisionally hire workers until verification is confirmed and maintain records for at least three years. The law exempts employers already compliant with federal verification rules and those who hired staff before the law's effective date. It does not replace federal immigration law requirements, and violations could result in fines up to $5,000 per incident.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Oklahoma driver license laws to clarify age requirements and licensing procedures for commercial vehicles. It primarily affects drivers seeking commercial licenses and those operating hazardous materials vehicles by setting minimum age limits and outlining specific testing requirements. Key provisions allow 17-year-olds to obtain restricted commercial licenses for harvest purposes and establish that 18-year-olds must hold a commercial learner permit for at least 14 days before receiving a full commercial license. The legislation also updates existing statutory language and references to align with current regulations.

Maddy summarySB 245 creates the Oklahoma High Dosage Tutoring Program for grades K-8, targeting students at least half a grade level behind in math or English language arts. The program requires in-person tutoring (3+ one-hour sessions weekly for 10-12 weeks per semester), with school districts prioritizing federally designated schools under the Every Student Succeeds Act. Tutors earn bonuses based on student progress (e.g., $1,600 per cohort per semester and $1,000 per grade-level improvement), and districts must track student growth using standardized assessments. Funding comes from a new revolving fund in the State Treasury, supported by state appropriations, federal grants, and other designated sources.

Maddy summarySB 245 directs Oklahoma's State Department of Education to establish a new intensive tutoring program for public school students. The program would provide structured academic support to students needing extra help, particularly in core subjects. The bill mandates the department to create this program and takes effect immediately under emergency provisions. It directly impacts Oklahoma public school students eligible for the tutoring services.

Maddy summaryOklahoma's SCR 8 is a symbolic resolution urging the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn *Obergefell v. Hodges* (2015), which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. It states that marriage should be defined as between one man and one woman, aligning with Oklahoma’s constitutional amendment (Article II, Section 35) approved by voters in 2004. The resolution has no legal effect and does not change laws or impact individuals; it is solely a statement directed to the Supreme Court, the President of the Senate, and other officials. It reflects the legislature’s position but does not alter marriage policy or rights.