Sen. Kendal Sacchieri

Maddy summarySB 1116 requires that any ballot proposition proposing a tax increase, extension of an existing tax, or authorization of a new tax must include the phrase "THIS IS A TAX INCREASE" prominently above the proposition. This applies to all state questions submitted to voters for approval, directly affecting voters who will see this clear notice before casting ballots on tax-related measures. The bill mandates this language be printed conspicuously as defined by Oklahoma law, ensuring voters immediately recognize tax-related proposals. It amends existing ballot requirements to add this standard warning for tax-related propositions, effective November 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 529 creates a new exemption for used powersports vehicle dealers (like motorcycle, ATV, or scooter sellers) in Oklahoma. It allows these dealers to apply annually to the Oklahoma Tax Commission for "exempt" status if they show their main revenue comes from selling such vehicles. The Tax Commission would then grant this exemption for one year and has authority to create rules for the program. This directly affects dealers selling used powersports vehicles who meet the revenue requirement, while excluding off-road-only vehicles sold by retail implement dealers.

Maddy summarySB 529 creates a new exemption for used powersports vehicle dealers (including ATVs, motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds) in Oklahoma. It allows these dealers to apply annually to the Oklahoma Tax Commission for exemption status, provided they demonstrate that most of their revenue comes from selling these vehicles. The Tax Commission would then grant annual exemption, removing them from certain regulatory requirements. This directly affects dealers selling used powersports vehicles but excludes those selling off-road vehicles through retail implement dealers.

Maddy summarySB 84 modifies Oklahoma's school firearm rules to expand exceptions for lawful firearm storage. It allows private schools to adopt policies permitting staff or students with valid Oklahoma Self-Defense Act licenses to carry firearms on campus, provided the school has a written policy and the firearm is stored locked and hidden when vehicles are unattended. The bill also adds new exceptions for firearms used in approved hunting training, ROTC activities (when unloaded), and school personnel with specific security licenses. These changes apply to both public and private schools, with violations punishable by a $250 fine. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1515 requires Oklahoma voters applying for absentee ballots electronically to provide matching identification (name, birth date, and ID number) to their voter registration records and submit a statement explaining why they cannot vote in person on election day. The statement must cite one of nine specific reasons, such as illness, military service, or being 75+ years old. The bill also mandates that each absentee ballot application specify a single election date, making it invalid for other elections. This applies directly to voters requesting absentee ballots via electronic means, with applications lacking the required statement or matching ID information being denied. The law takes effect November 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 84 amends Oklahoma law to expand exceptions allowing firearms on school property. It adds new provisions permitting firearms in privately owned vehicles used solely for transporting students (not left unattended), firearms used in approved hunting training courses, and weapons carried by authorized personnel (like school security with specific licenses). Crucially, it allows private schools to adopt policies permitting firearms on their property or in school buses, granting the schools liability immunity from lawsuits unless due to gross negligence. This directly affects private schools, their governing entities, and individuals carrying firearms under approved school policies. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1515 requires Oklahoma voters applying for absentee ballots electronically to provide matching identification (name, birth date, ID number) to their voter registration and submit a statement explaining why they cannot vote in person on election day. The statement must cite one of nine specific reasons, such as illness, military service, or being 75+ years old. The bill also mandates that each absentee ballot application must specify a single election date, making applications valid only for that election. This applies to all registered voters seeking absentee ballots through electronic means, with applications lacking the required statement being denied. The changes take effect November 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 1124 requires Oklahoma school districts (excluding technology centers) to set property tax levies high enough to fully redeem bonds and pay interest within the originally proposed timeframe. If a bond is redeemed early at a discount (below par), the district must reduce its tax levy to zero for one full tax year and cannot issue new bonds for the same purpose for one year. The State Auditor enforces these rules, and non-compliant districts must transfer 10% of state aid to an education fund, or face limits on future bond issuance. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires Oklahoma school districts (excluding technology centers) to set property tax rates high enough to redeem bonds on schedule. If a bond is redeemed early below its face value, the district must reduce the tax rate to zero for at least one full tax year and cannot issue new bonds for the same purpose for one year. The State Auditor enforces these rules, and noncompliant districts must transfer 10% of state aid to an education fund. The law aims to ensure responsible bond management and prevent premature redemption without fiscal adjustments.

Maddy summarySB 97 prohibits Oklahoma state agencies from contracting with lobbyists or hiring legislative liaisons for certain purposes. The bill directly affects state agencies by restricting how they engage with outside advocates on legislative matters. Key provisions include an exemption allowing agency personnel to communicate with the Legislature regarding fiscal affairs or other matters deemed necessary by the Legislature. The bill is currently pending in the Legislature after passing committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.