Oklahoma State Recap: October Edition

A Keating Returns to the Ring: Oklahoma tends to have few political dynasties. That could change soon, though. Chip Keating, son of former Governor Frank Keating, threw his hat in the ring for governor recently. He joins a crowded field that includes current Attorney General Gentner Drummond and former Speaker Charles McCall. With the primary still months away, expect this race to get even more interesting. Keating should have a bevy of support. He'll have a lot of work ahead of him though. Name recognition matters, but it doesn't win primaries alone. Ask any Bush or Clinton.

Oklahoma Legislators Dig Into Homeowners Insurance Rates: If you're an Oklahoma

homeowner, you've felt the sting. Insurance premiums have skyrocketed in recent years, driven by severe weather events and carrier exits from the market. State lawmakers are taking notice. Recent interim studies explored rate regulation, market stability, and potential legislative solutions for the 2026 session. With constituents feeling the squeeze and insurers trying to stay competitive, expect this issue to be front and center when legislators return to the Capitol in February. The question isn't whether something will be done - it's what.

Oklahoma Nonprofits Should Remain on Alert: Oklahoma lawmakers are taking an in-depth look at nonprofit tax policy. An interim study led by Rep. Marilyn Stark will examine whether the state should grant a sales tax exemption to Oklahoma-based 501(c)(3) organizations with annual gross revenues of $3 million or less. The idea isn’t new. House Bill 1568 proposed the same exemption in 2023, but legislators are revisiting the concept as nonprofits face funding cuts, rising costs and growing demand for services. Under the proposal, eligible nonprofits would have no longer paid state sales tax on their purchases, helping stretch donor dollars further. Supporters argue that keeping more money in mission-driven organizations results in greater value for Oklahomans who rely on them.

While this interim study doesn’t guarantee legislative action, it signals that nonprofit tax policy will be back on the table heading into future sessions. Advocacy groups should stay tuned and stay engaged. These early discussions often shape the priorities that become tomorrow’s bills.

Quantum Computing Gets Its Moment: Oklahoma's interim study on quantum

computing isn't just indulgent introspection; it's part of a broader national conversation about America's technological competitiveness. With China investing heavily in quantum research and IBM, Google, and startups racing toward quantum advantage, states are asking: What's our role? Workforce development, research incentives, and infrastructure investments are all on the table. For Oklahoma, with its aerospace industry and growing biotech sector, quantum could be the next frontier. Time will tell.