As legislators, our top priority is ensuring the wellbeing and security of the people we serve. This week, I am proud to highlight two key legislative efforts that will have a meaningful impact on Oklahomans: House Bill 1268, which strengthens retirement benefits for county sheriff’s deputies and EMTs, and House Bill 2728, a reform measure by Rep. Gerrid Kendrix, R-Altus, that enhances the state’s administrative rulemaking process. Both bills represent responsible governance and effective policy solutions aimed at improving our state. Our county sheriff’s deputies and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) dedicate their lives to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk. HB1268 would recognize their sacrifices by incorporating a five-year Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) into their pension system. This longoverdue update would provide greater financial security for first responders as they near retirement, ensuring they receive the support they deserve after years of dedicated service to Oklahoma. Additionally, the DROP program would help improve retention, allowing experienced professionals to continue serving while accumulating retirement benefits—ensuring our communities remain protected by seasoned, knowledgeable individuals.

I am proud to say this bill passed out of the Banking, Financial Services and Pensions Committee and will now move through the Oklahoman Pension Legislation Actuarial Analysis process. Under the Oklahoma Pension Legislation Actuarial Analysis Act, any proposed legislation affecting state retirement systems—such as changes to benefits, contributions or funding— must undergo an actuarial review. This analysis evaluates the financial impact of the bill on the pension system, including whether it increases or decreases pension liabilities, its long-term sustainability and whether employer or employee contribution rates need adjustment.

The Oklahoma House also took a significant step forward with the passage of HB2728, authored by Rep. Kendrix, which now moves to the Senate for further consideration. Approved with overwhelming bipartisan support of an 86-3 vote, this legislation reforms the state’s administrative rulemaking process—the system through which agencies draft regulations to implement laws. If enacted, HB2728 would require all proposed agency rules to include an economic impact statement, and any rule with a projected fiscal impact of at least $1 million over five years would need separate legislative approval. This added transparency and oversight would help ensure that regulations are both fiscally responsible and in the best interest of Oklahomans.

I remain optimistic about these bills and the positive impact they would have on our state. As they move through the legislative process, I will continue advocating for policies that support our first responders, promote responsible governance and make a real difference in the lives of Oklahomans.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. My email address is neil. hays@okhouse.gov, or you can call my office at (405) 557-7302. I am proud to represent you at the State Capitol.

Neil Hays serves District 13 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes parts of McIntosh, Muskogee and ‘Wagoner counties.