By Rep. Ty Burns, R-Pawnee
We are now in a critical stage of the legislative session, where we focus on floor work ahead of the deadline for bills to pass out of their chamber of origin. This week, I want to highlight a few key bills making their way through the process.
House Bill 1276 would require school districts to implement policies prohibiting student cell phone use during certain times. As a former educator, I’ve seen firsthand how these devices can be a distraction in the classroom. This bill ensures schools can set guidelines to help students stay focused on learning.
House Bill 1732 protects the rights of schools to broadcast their own athletic events. Schools should have the ability to share these moments with their communities without unnecessary interference.
Supporting Oklahoma’s agricultural industry is also a priority. House Bill 2838 creates the Oklahoma Certified Meat Processing Facility Incentive Act of 2025, which helps expand local meat processing options. This will benefit both ranchers and consumers while boosting rural economies.
Additionally, House Bill 1024 addresses low profit margins under the Unfair Sales Act to help Oklahoma businesses remain competitive. House Bill 1200 updates tax regulations to provide more clarity on how Oklahoma taxable income is allocated. House Bill 2836 makes key updates to veteran-related programs, ensuring those who have served our country receive the benefits and recognition they deserve.
I’m also excited to have Ty McLaughlin, a senior at Oklahoma State University studying agribusiness, interning with my office this session. Ty is actively involved in student government, campus leadership and agricultural policy. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in politics and policy issues at OSU and hopes to work as a lobbyist or policy analyst focused on agriculture.
I will continue working to support legislation that strengthens our communities and upholds our Oklahoma values. If you have any thoughts on these or other issues, I encourage you to reach out. It’s an honor to serve House District 35, and I appreciate the opportunity to represent you.
–Ty Burns serves District 35 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes Pawnee County and parts of Creek, Noble, Osage and Payne counties.(405) 557-7344
