By Devyn Lyon, FOX23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — Oklahoma lawmakers are already preparing for next year’s legislative session after House and Senate leaders approved dozens of interim studies covering everything from artificial intelligence and housing to education, water policy and tourism.
Interim studies allow lawmakers to take a deeper look at complex issues before deciding whether to file legislation.
The hearings are typically held during the months between legislative sessions and often include testimony from state agencies, industry leaders, advocacy groups and members of the public.
Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton approved this year’s Senate interim study requests, saying the process gives lawmakers an opportunity to examine important issues in greater detail before the Legislature reconvenes in February.
According to Paxton, interim studies are designed to encourage collaboration between lawmakers, experts and stakeholders while helping legislators develop informed policy proposals for future sessions.
Hearings are expected to take place throughout the legislative interim and conclude by the end of October.
Among the topics lawmakers plan to study this year are:
- Artificial intelligence and its use in state government
- High-stakes testing and Oklahoma’s education requirements
- House affordability and the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency
- Long-term water policy
- State park funding
- Tourism development
- Emergency-certified teachers
- Active shooter response and public safety
- Oklahoma’s growing aging population
- Accessory dwelling units, sometimes called “granny flats”
One education study that might draw particular attention from Oklahoma families will examine the state’s high-stakes testing requirements, including the use of the ACT in high schools.
Lawmakers are expected to hear from education officials and other stakeholders as they evaluate whether changes should be considered before the next legislative session.
Several Tulsa-area lawmakers are also leading or requesting interim studies on issues affecting Green Country, including tourism, education and technology policy.
Residents who want to follow the studies can view the full list of approved House and Senate interim studies below:
People can also find and contact their Oklahoma state representative and state senator by using the Oklahoma Legislature’s “Find My Legislator” tool here.
