Recent Articles

Only smash the piggy bank in emergencies (Policy Matters)

This column originally appeared in The Journal Record on April 23, 2025 Imagine you’re saving money in case your roof starts leaking during a storm. One day, instead of fixing the roof, you decide to hand that money to someone… Read more [More...]

Oklahomans get what we pay for (Policy Matters)

• This column originally ran in the Journal Record on Feb. 7, 2024 • OK Policy Advocacy Alert: Tell lawmakers to oppose tax cuts that benefit the wealthy and risk critical services Oklahomans pay among the least in taxes when… Read more [More...]

Policy Matters: ‘Path to zero’ is a dangerous road

This column originally ran Feb. 5, 2025 in The Journal Record During his State of the State address, the governor again pitched plans to cut – and eventually eliminate – Oklahoma’s personal income tax. This so-called “path to zero” is… Read more [More...]

One Moment of Courage

Not every act of courage will make the history books, and that’s okay. What matters is that you take action. You show up. You decide not to stay silent in the face of injustice. Because when you take that step, I promise others will follow. And when enough of us find our courage, we will tip the balance toward change. [More...]

Making 2025 a year of bold action for our children (Policy Matters)

As we welcome the new year, it’s time to set our sights on building a brighter future for Oklahoma—a future where every child, every family, and every community has the opportunity to thrive. [More...]

Steps to improve budget transparency next session (Policy Matters)

This column originally ran in the Journal Record on May 29, 2024 This legislative session, lawmakers placed great emphasis on budget transparency. It’s been revealing to watch the process unfold, but there are steps lawmakers can take to build on… Read more [More...]

Comments from OK Policy’s Shiloh Kantz, on Jan. 24 National Press Call about Cutting State Taxes

Media Release: National experts say Oklahoma is part of a damaging tax-cutting trend For more information, contact Dave Hamby, Oklahoma Policy Institute, (918) 810-0182, dhamby@okpolicy.org – – – During the past few decades, Oklahoma has become one of the nation’s… Read more [More...]

Statement regarding Oklahoma’s decision to opt out of new summer food program for children

Every Oklahoman should be concerned that nearly 1 in 5 of our state’s children are uncertain when their next meal will come, and 84% of our children rely on free or reduced-price lunches during the school year. To turn our backs on a proven, effective way to ensure our children have enough to eat is inexcusable. [More...]

Policy Matters: Senate’s budget transparency pledge is step in right direction

Senate leaders last week shared their intention to make the annual budget process more transparent. This is a welcome first step towards making this vital process more inclusive and democratic. But more can be done. [More...]

Policy Matters: It’s time to rethink minimum wage

Have you ever rearranged your living room furniture? When the light touches the space in new ways, the pieces create a new refreshing ensemble. Much like reviving a dark, stale living room, it is time for Oklahoma lawmakers to shed… Read more [More...]