Governor Kevin Stitt is taking legal action against the Oklahoma legislature after lawmakers pushed through an override to extend two revenue-sharing agreements with tribes through 2024. Stitt argues that lawmakers are challenging his ability to negotiate compacts and wants the Oklahoma Supreme Court to rule on the matter. Lawmakers believe they have the right to ensure all compacts are negotiated in good faith and hope the extension will improve relations between the governor and tribes. The lawsuit has been filed, but it is unclear when a ruling will be made.
The Oklahoma Legislature has reached a deal on public school funding and private education tax credits. The package includes $625 million for public education, with $500 million going to the education funding formula and $125 million for Redbud grants. The tax credit plan will provide refundable tax credits ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 per student for families with children in private K-12 schools, and a $1,000 refundable tax credit per child for home-school families. The package also includes pay raises for certified staff and paid maternity leave for teachers. The deal marks a "great day for public education in Oklahoma," according to the executive director of the Oklahoma State School Boards Association.
