Oklahoma’s legislative session is set to begin with a series of bills introduced by Rep. Jim Shaw of Chandler, focusing on local governance and accountability. Shaw has proposed five bills aimed at increasing local control and clarifying responsibilities for both communities and businesses.
According to the Oklahoma House of Representatives, among the measures, House Bill 3723 would require county commissioner approval and potentially a local referendum before green energy projects can proceed. House Bill 3724 would require high-demand facilities to cover their own infrastructure costs, while giving counties and municipalities the authority to ban such projects. House Bill 3725 would mandate that employers use E-Verify for new hires and establish a centralized portal through the Oklahoma Department of Labor for compliance reporting, including penalties for violations.
The remaining proposals include House Bill 3726, which would end the practice of cross-pledging toll revenues by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, ensuring each project remains financially independent. House Bill 3727 would limit the use of public funds for lobbying and establish a six-year waiting period before former legislators can register as lobbyists. The bills are set for consideration in the legislative session starting Feb. 2, with Shaw encouraging residents to reach out to their local representatives.
