State Representative Mark Lepak of Claremore is spearheading an interim study dedicated to dissecting the Secure Oklahoma Now (Not on Our Watch) task force report. The analysis comes in the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, an incident that Lepak hopes to use as a case study for evaluating existing security measures. In a statement obtained by The Oklahoma House, Lepak emphasized the necessity of such precautions, saying, "It is unfortunate that, in these times, it is necessary to give this much attention to protecting the public and participants in gatherings of all sizes."
The focus of the study will to thoroughly evaluate the construction and implementation of the security protocols that were established by the task force. The Secure Oklahoma NOW initiative, launched by Governor Kevin Stitt, has highlighted the needs for robust security practices in the face of potential threats. This initiative was solidified earlier this year through Executive Order 2025-02. According to Rep. Lepak, "While that tragic event was not anticipated at the time this topic was requested, it provides a vivid case study that should prove instructive."
Public Safety Commissioner Tim Tipton will take a lead role in the presentation of the study outcomes. Additionally, input from the advisory council responsible for drafting the security protocols will be available during the interrogative portion of the meeting. The House Public Safety Committee has scheduled the interim study for October 15 at 9 a.m., to be held in Room 206 at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
Attendees and curious onlookers can anticipate seeing this piece of equipment showcased outside capitol grounds. As per the Representative's hopes, "I hope that this study will provide a public platform to promote the use to use these protocols for any event where the public will gather."
