Recent Articles

We’re hiring for Legislative and Outreach Director

OK Policy is now hiring for its Legislative and Outreach Director. This position is responsible for representing the organization by developing and maintaining close working relationships with key audiences and partners, including members of the Oklahoma Legislature, community organizations, and… Read more [More...]

Burglary reclassification is another measurable win for criminal justice reform

Our analysis suggests that SB 786 resulted in a substantive decrease in second-degree burglary charges and fewer prison sentences in the months following its November 2018 implementation. As Oklahoma continues efforts to reduce our prison population, this analysis reinforces how legislative reform can create swift and durable change.  [More...]

Providing legal representation could begin to fix Oklahoma’s broken eviction process

While we cannot legislate away the pandemic, we can better structure and operate our justice system to ensure that every tenant knows their rights and understands the process.  [More...]

Statement Re: Passage of State Question 802

Statement from the Oklahoma Policy Institute: Oklahomans made the right choice Tuesday by passing SQ 802, which will provide life-changing health care coverage for more than 200,000 Oklahomans and create a significant economic stimulus when implemented. OK Policy is grateful… Read more [More...]

Oklahoma’s primary is Tuesday | Get out and vote (safely)

On Tuesday, Oklahomans will go to the polls for the statewide primary election, which also includes State Question 802 to expand Medicaid. If you have not already cast an absentee ballot or participated in early voting, polls will be open for in person voting from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday.  [More...]

Medicaid expansion: Ten years of unparalleled return on investment, improved outcomes

This research shows that Medicaid expansion provides significant benefits not only for low-income adults in the U.S., specifically in states that expanded Medicaid, but also across local and state economies. No state has rolled back their expanded coverage through Medicaid, which perhaps serves as the best validation of the program’s strength.  [More...]

SQ 802 is good for Oklahoma — but don’t just take our word for it

On June 30, Oklahomans will be going to the polls in a statewide election that also includes SQ 802, which would expand Medicaid coverage in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Policy Institute, which rarely takes a position on state questions, has endorsed SQ 802. [More...]

During this economic crisis we want people to work. Let’s give them the tools to do it.

In the midst of crisis, Oklahoma can and should better equip returning citizens to succeed. An accessible path from prison to employment can help those with felony convictions find high-wage employment immediately following incarceration. [More...]

Statement: We can’t undo the past. But together, we can build a better future.

Statement from the Oklahoma Policy Institute:  Racism takes many forms. Most of us are familiar with — and openly decry — the overt and direct racism that stems from ignorance, fear, and hatred. The more insidious racism is concealed and… Read more [More...]

Tulsa Race Massacre Remembered – 99th Anniversary

Tulsa Race Massacre Remembered The 99th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre was commemorated, which brought national attention in light of nationwide protests about racism in America. Below are articles from Tulsa and publications from around the nation.   Tulsa-area Coverage… Read more [More...]