OK Freedom Caucus calls for income tax cuts, spending reductions

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus Celebrates Passage of Path to Zero Income Tax

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (April 10th) – The Oklahoma Freedom Caucus celebrates the passage of HB1539 which sets Oklahoma on a path to fully eliminate the state income tax. 

While this is a monumental step in the right direction, we now call upon the Oklahoma House of Representatives to immediately pass HB1539 to send it to Governor Stitt’s desk for his signature.

We remain steadfast in our calls upon the legislature to prioritize passing additional bills this session that will:

• Provide an immediate cut to the income tax of 0.5% or more
• Targeted budget cuts for all agencies at 5% or more
• Eliminate ghost employee positions, freezing any new hires, voluntary buyouts, and eliminating redundant positions

Here is who voted AGAINST the bill to phase out the state income tax:

• Boren (D)
• Dossett (D)
• Goodwin (D)
• Hicks (D)
• Howard (R)
• Jech (R)
• Kirt (D)
• Mann (D)
• Nice (D)

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus Sets Aim on Cuts: Income Tax Cuts and Budget Cuts

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (April 9th) – The Oklahoma Freedom Caucus doubles down on their support for the growing movement among Oklahoma citizens demanding significant cuts to the state income tax and reductions in government spending.

“Oklahomans are sending a clear message: it’s time to lighten the tax burden on hardworking families and rein in growth in government spending,” said OKFC Chairman Shane Jett. “We stand with the people who are tired of seeing their earnings siphoned off by bloated budgets and inefficient programs to be doled out to bureaucrats.”

The Oklahoma Freedom Caucus calls upon the legislature to prioritize immediately passing bills this session that will:

• Provide an immediate cut to the income tax of 0.5% or more
• Put Oklahoma on a path to zero out the income tax entirely
• Targeted budget cuts for all agencies at 5% or more
• Eliminate ghost employee positions, freezing any new hires, voluntary buyouts, and eliminating redundant positions

Any proposed state budget that does not include budget cuts and both immediate and long term income tax cuts is a non-starter for the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus.

“We can’t tax and spend our way into prosperity,” Vice Chair Jim Olsen added. “Oklahoma can lead the way by embracing the same principles of limited government that are resonating across the nation. The people have spoken, and the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus is ready to fight for their vision.”

Senator Jett files Senate Concurrent Resolution declaring “Christ is King”

Senator Jett Files Senate Concurrent Resolution Declaring “Christ is King”

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 27th) – Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, has introduced a concurrent resolution proclaiming “Christ is King” in Oklahoma, a resounding acknowledgment of the state’s deep spiritual heritage and the faith that sustains its people. The resolution reaffirms Oklahoma’s legacy of resilience, moral clarity, and unapologetic commitment to the values that uplift its citizens.

Drawing from the state’s rich history, the resolution recognizes the phrase “Christ is King” as a powerful declaration of faith embraced by millions of Oklahomans and Christians globally, symbolizing the sovereignty of Jesus Christ as a beacon of hope, unity, and moral guidance. It stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Christian belief in shaping Oklahoma’s culture and communities.

State House approves bill requiring free photo voter IDs

House Approves Bill Requiring Photo Voter IDs

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 27th) – Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, has passed legislation further enhancing the integrity of Oklahoma's electoral process.

If House Bill 1005 becomes law, all voter identification cards must include a photo of the voter beginning in 2027. Under the bill, Service Oklahoma would be tasked with working with the Secretary of the State Election Board to develop and provide a free photo identification card that meets HB1005's requirements.

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus releases 2025 policy agenda

Good stuff from the best group in the Legislature:

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus releases policy agenda

OKLAHOMA CITY (Feb. 17th) – Today, the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus led by Chairman Shane Jett, House Vice Chair Jim Olsen, and Senate Vice Chair Dusty Deevers released the following policy agenda for 2025.

For the 60th Legislature the focus of the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus is to advance the Freedoms of Oklahomans in four key areas:

Stitt signs energy MOU with Denmark; OK Freedom Caucus mentions concerns

Governor Stitt Signs Energy MOU with Ambassador of Denmark

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 2, 2024) - Today, Governor Stitt joined Ambassador of Denmark to the United States Jesper Møller Sørensen to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Oklahoma and Denmark. The agreement focuses on increasing collaboration between the two governments in pursuit of a robust and innovative energy future. The MOU also includes areas of technology and defense.

“Thanks to pro-business policies and our 'more of everything' approach to energy, the world is taking notice of what’s happening in Oklahoma,” said Governor Stitt. “This mutually beneficial relationship will create opportunities for economic growth and job creation for both Oklahoma and Denmark. Working together on innovative energy solutions will further enhance our already strong relationship with Denmark.”

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus backs SQ834, the Citizens-only voting amendment

I'm a little late on getting this posted, but this goes into some detail on State Question 834, which is the most easily-understood state question on the ballot (SQ 833... that's a totally different matter).

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus leads the charge on only citizens voting in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY (October 10th) – Yesterday, the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus led by Chairman Senator Shane Jett, joined with Americans for Citizens Voting in support of State Question 834 the Citizen-only voting amendment. 

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus challenges Tinker Air Force Base’s “National Coming Out Day” event

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus Challenges Tinker Air Force Base’s “National Coming Out Day” Event

Oklahoma City, OK (Oct. 15th) –  The Oklahoma Freedom Caucus challenges the decision to host and promote “National Coming Out Day” on Tinker Air Force Base.

Senator Shane Jett, OKFC Chairman and U.S. Navy veteran, expressed the criticism shared by thousands of military families. “Military bases have significant budgets to cultivate positive relationships in their communities. It’s incomprehensible that Tinker Air Force Base would openly promote a prurient lifestyle that would obviously affront the tenets of faith of over 75% of Oklahoma’s professing Christian population as well those practicing Jewish and Muslim faiths. It is vulgar, prurient, inappropriate, and unbecoming of our military facilities.” said Senator Jett.

A few brave State Reps decry Tinker AFB's "National Coming Out Day" event

We still have a few brave legislators willing to speak the truth:

Reps Issue Joint Statement Opposing Tinker AFB "National Coming Out Day" Event

OKLAHOMA CITY (October 7th) – A group of legislators is opposing an event at Tinker Air Force Base called "National Coming Out Day" and the affirmation that homosexuals are "born this way."

The following statement is issued by Reps. Jim Olsen, R-Roland; David Hardin, R-Stilwell; Clay Staires, R-Skiatook; Kevin West, R-Moore; Rick West, R-Heavener; and Danny Williams, R-Seminole.

"As one of the nation's most important and strategic military bases, Tinker should remain focused on our national defense and not expend taxpayer dollars to promote a lifestyle contrary to the values of the majority of Oklahomans.

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus supports Walters' Bibles in classroom initiative

Oklahoma Freedom Caucus Supports Bibles in Classroom Initiative

OKLAHOMA CITY (Oct. 2nd) – In support of bolstering educational excellence and understanding the formation of the United States, the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus (OKFC), led by Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, and Sen. Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, has thrown its support behind the Bible initiative in public schools proposed by Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters.

The Freedom Caucus applauded Walters' initiative to ensure the availability of a Bible in public school classroom across the state. Walters announced last week he would include $3 million in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request to fund the initiative.

OK Freedom Caucus dismisses media effort to drive wedge with Gov. Stitt over task force report

OKFC Responds to Misleading Reporting on Governor Stitt and Task Force Recommendations

OKLAHOMA CITY (September 10th) – The Oklahoma Freedom Caucus (OKFC) commented on a recent report from KOCO, which, in the headline and byline, falsely suggested a rift between OKFC and Governor Kevin Stitt over the Oklahoma State Work Permits and Visas Task Force. While members of OKFC, including Senator Shane Jett, Senator Dusty Deevers, and Representative Jim Olsen, raised valid concerns about the Task Force’s recommendations, their criticisms pertained to the Task Force report and any future laws based on it, not Governor Stitt.

Olsen praises high election integrity scores for Oklahoma

Olsen Comments on High Election Integrity Scores for Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, commented on the consistently high performance of the state of Oklahoma in election integrity.

"Oklahomans are very concerned with the issue of election integrity," Olsen said. "They want election results to be accurate, and not fraudulent. I am happy to report that for a number of years, Oklahoma has had an excellent system. I am especially happy to report that our performance is steadily improving.

Cong. Brecheen to speak at launch of new Oklahoma Freedom Caucus on Tuesday

Conservatives in the Oklahoma Legislature are gaining a new tool for organization and action. The State Freedom Caucus Network announced today that the Oklahoma Freedom Caucus will be holding a launch on Tuesday at the State Capitol, featuring Congressman Josh Brecheen, himself a member of the U.S. House Freedom Caucus and a former Oklahoma state senator from the stalwart conservative wing.

A similar effort took place in 2017 with the formation of the Platform Caucus. Although many of the members were controversially taken out in the 2018 primaries and runoffs by the well-monied moderate establishment, the Platform Caucus had some success in killing some tax hike proposals in 2017 and 2018.

Launch of the New Oklahoma Freedom Caucus

OKLAHOMA CITY — The State Freedom Caucus Network will hold a press conference with special guest, Congressman Josh Brecheen (OK-02), to announce the launch of the new Oklahoma Freedom Caucus.

State Senate votes to raise age of consent from 16 to 18

Senate votes to raise age of consent

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 12th) – Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, received overwhelming approval for his legislation to raise the age of consent from 16 to 18. Senate Bill 615 aims to protect minors from predation by giving them two additional years of legal protection.

State Rep. Jim Olsen files bill to display Ten Commandments in public school classrooms

Olsen Files Bill to Display Ten Commandments in Public School Classrooms

OKLAHOMA CITY (Jan. 2nd) – Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, has filed legislation to require the Ten Commandments be displayed in all public school classrooms.

House Bill 2962, filed Friday, would require each classroom to clearly display a poster or framed copy of the Ten Commandments, measuring at least 16 inches wide and 20 inches tall, beginning in the 2024-2025 school year. The bill also outlines the specific text to be used for the display.

Stitt, UKB and Kialegee tribal leaders agree on tribal gaming compacts, ask committee for approval

GOVERNOR STITT, CHIEF BUNCH AND MEKKO YAHOLA SEND LETTERS TO JOINT COMMITTEE ON STATE-TRIBAL RELATIONS, REQUEST APPROVAL OF TRIBAL GAMING COMPACTS

OKLAHOMA CITY (September 14, 2023) - Governor Kevin Stitt, in separate letters with United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) Chief Joe Bunch and Kialegee Tribal Town (KTT) Mekko Stephanie Yahola, called on the Joint Committee on State-Tribal Relations, Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, and House Speaker Charles McCall to convene to approve their agreed upon gaming compact.  

State Rep. Olsen: Issues with SB26X and two-tiered system of unequal justice

Issues with SB26X

By Rep. Jim Olsen

The Legislature recently voted to overturn the governor's veto of Senate Bill 26X, which effectively gives another year for the tribal compacts to be negotiated.

It would be easy to look at this issue as pretty simple. The tribes just want another year to negotiate the compacts. Just give them another year, right? What's the big deal?

Hasn't the Cherokee Nation been very generous to our area, helping with schools, bridges, roads and numerous other community projects? Absolutely yes, to the tune of tens of millions of dollars!

Doesn't it behoove us to seek collaboration with the various tribal nations for the benefit of us all? Of course it does!

However, I have found this issue to be a little more complicated than I had at first realized, as there are several legal or constitutional issues with voting for this veto override.

There is a good chance that the Oklahoma Supreme Court will declare this bill to be unconstitutional.

First, we passed it during a special session, meaning that any bill heard during the special session must be related to the topic originally referenced in the call, as required by our state constitution. The call of the special session was related to the Fiscal Year 2024 state budget.  The argument for the call being related to the compacts is that the outcome of the vote on the bill could have a fiscal impact. However, almost every bill we vote on has some sort of fiscal impact. Therefore, if fiscal impact means that it is germane, then germaneness as a requirement for a bill to be included in a call for special session loses any meaning whatsoever.  I believe addressing the compacts during a special session for the budget is a stretch at best.

Secondly, the constitution specifically designates these negotiations with tribal nations to the governor. The Legislature affirmed this in 2014 when we put into statute that the governor is responsible for conducting these negotiations.

In the immediate sense, it is possible for the Legislature to change the statute. However, there is a proper way to change existing laws, rather than simply ignoring it for the sake of another law.

If we want to change statute, we must either amend the existing statute or add the statement "notwithstanding other provisions of law," neither of which was carried out prior to the passage of SB26X.

The issue that overshadows everything else is that the Oklahoma Constitution assigns the responsibility of negotiations with the tribes to the governor, not the Legislature, the Judiciary branch or any other part of our state government.

Every two years since I joined the House in 2018, I have affirmed an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and the Oklahoma Constitution. If I knowingly defy our state constitution, I have violated my oath of office, and this is something I cannot and will not do.

In addition to the direct constitutional issues, there are other issues with the compact agreements that the tribes are bringing forth.

They argue that the phrase "Indian country" should be used in these compacts. What's the problem with that? The issue is that this brings us closer to a two-tiered system of law in Oklahoma. This has been expressly advocated in some of the legal briefs from the tribes in various court cases and is expressed in the following court cases:

Alicia Stroble, a member of the Muskogee (Creek) Nation who lives in Okmulgee, argues that she is exempt from Oklahoma state taxes because she is a tribal member living in Indian Country.

Justin Hooper, a member of the Choctaw Nation, argues that he is exempt from paying a $150 speeding ticket within the City of Tulsa because he is a tribal member.

We've also seen that under the new "plate pay" system by the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, tribal members with unregistered tribal tags are not in the OTA's system and thus cannot be charged for using turnpikes. One vehicle with a Cherokee Nation tag has reportedly failed to pay $670 in tolls since May 15. Should they be exempt because of their tribal affiliation?

If things keep going in this direction, the implications of this two-tiered system would eventually be even more extensive. We must maintain equal justice in Oklahoma.

Rep. Jim Olsen represents District 2 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes portions of Seqouyah County.

Rep. Olsen warns: pro-abortion bill makes late-session reappearance

 Pro-Abortion Bill SB 834 transforms into Pro-Abortion SB 368

By State Rep. Jim Olsen (R-Roland)

Before the reversal of Roe v Wade, virtually every Republican voted for some kind of abortion limitations, and the argument was "If it saves even one baby, it's worth it."  Now, among a few of the more liberal Republicans , the refrain has changed to "If we sacrifice a few, we can save many."

In Senate Bill 834, this session has seen a strong battle on whether we need to loosen up and compromise our abortion laws and allow the brutal murder of some portion of our babies.  Ostensibly, this would give us some protection against a state question that could legalize abortion on demand, wide open.  This line of thought advocates that if we allowed the slaughter of perhaps 200 babies per year, this would save the larger number that would be killed in wide open abortion on demand.  The extermination of the approximately 200 babies would have been allowed on the basis of the mother being a victim of rape or incest.

As we have argued in the past, these terrible crimes are not the fault of the baby.  The baby's essential humanity and right to life is not contingent upon the quality of her parents.  The baby is not guilty of any crime meriting the death penalty.

The baby has a right to life!

Legislators, OCPA praise signing of ban on "gender transition" procedures for children

Sen. Daniels, Rep. Hasenbeck issue statements after Gov. Stitt signs SB 613, prohibiting gender transition procedures for minors

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 2nd) – Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin, issued the following statements after Gov. Kevin Stitt signed Senate Bill 613 into law, banning gender transition surgeries and hormone therapies for children under the age of 18.

Hamilton's bill to raise pay for election day poll workers passes Senate

Senate approves pay increase for election day poll workers

OKLAHOMA CITY (March 14th) – The full Senate approved Sen. Warren Hamilton’s bill to increase compensation for poll workers in Oklahoma. Senate Bill 290 would increase pay for election inspectors from $110 to $225 and pay for judges and clerks would double from $100 to $200.

Oklahoma State House bans "gender transition" services for minors

Praise God:

House Prohibits Gender Transition Services for Minors

OKLAHOMA CITY (Feb. 28th) – Legislation prohibiting gender transition services for minors was approved Tuesday by the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

House Bill 2177, authored by Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, and Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, prohibits health care professionals from providing, attempting to provide or providing a referral for puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and gender reassignment surgeries for minors.