In a significant move to enhance community support and provide safe spaces for youth, the Oklahoma City (OKC) Council has approved four locations for new youth centers across the metro. These centers aim to serve underserved communities by offering a variety of programs and resources for children of all ages. Serving Low-Income Communities The newly … Read more
In a significant development concerning the intersection of education and religious freedom, the Oklahoma Supreme Court has issued a temporary block on the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s (OSDE) initiative to purchase Bibles and Bible-based instructional materials for public schools. Background of the Initiative In June 2024, State Superintendent Ryan Walters mandated that all public … Read more
In a significant move to ensure the impartiality of Oklahoma’s judiciary, ten state lawmakers have called on members of the Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC) to focus on legal qualifications rather than political affiliations when selecting nominees for the Oklahoma Supreme Court. Background on the Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC) The JNC is a 15-member body responsible … Read more
In a decisive move to protect private property rights, the Oklahoma Senate has passed Senate Bill 352, which imposes significant restrictions on energy companies’ ability to exercise eminent domain for certain energy infrastructure projects. Key Provisions of Senate Bill 352 Senate Bill 352 introduces several critical measures affecting energy companies’ use of eminent domain: Legislative … Read more
Despite ongoing vaccination efforts, Oklahoma’s current immunization rates are not sufficient to completely halt the spread of measles. Recent cases in neighboring states have heightened concerns about the virus’s potential resurgence within the state. Recent Measles Cases in Oklahoma The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) has reported two probable cases of measles. Both individuals … Read more
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced significant changes to its overpayment recovery policy. Beginning March 27, the SSA will withhold 100% of monthly benefits from beneficiaries who have been overpaid, aiming to recoup funds more swiftly. This marks a reversal from the previous policy, which limited withholdings to 10% of monthly benefits. Understanding Social … Read more
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides essential nutritional support to millions of Americans. As March 2025 approaches, it’s crucial for beneficiaries to understand the payment schedules and any recent changes that might affect their benefits. March 2025 SNAP Payment Schedules SNAP payment dates vary by state, often depending on … Read more
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has initiated the processing of 2024 tax year refunds, with payments scheduled between March 10 and March 16, 2025. Timely and accurate filing can expedite your refund. IRS Tax Refund Processing Times Refund timelines vary based on filing methods and other factors: Filing Method Refund Delivery Method Estimated Processing Time … Read more
The Social Security Administration (SSA) plays a pivotal role in providing financial support to retirees and individuals with disabilities. However, there are circumstances under which the SSA may suspend payments to beneficiaries. Understanding these conditions is essential to ensure uninterrupted financial assistance. Reasons for Suspension of Social Security Benefits Impact on Family Benefits Suspension of … Read more
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has recently intensified his criticism of wind energy projects in the state, referring to them as a “green energy scam.” This bold stance has sparked a statewide debate on the future of renewable energy and its implications for local communities. Attorney General’s Stance on Wind Farms On January 8, 2025, … Read more