OK State Lawmakers React to Work Permit Task Force Recommendations

Oklahoma Capitol(Photo by Visions of America-Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — Oklahoma state lawmakers continue to share their reactions after Gov. Kevin Stitt’s Task Force on Work Permits and Visas released its recommendations on Friday.

At least two Republican legislators have voiced opposition to the proposals.

On Wednesday, State Sen. Dusty Deevers (R-Elgin) asserted “As legislators, we must look out first and foremost for the well-being of Oklahomans. I’m afraid these recommendations fail to do that… The people of Oklahoma deserve a State government that protects their economic and social interests first and foremost” in a statement.

State Rep. Justin Humphrey (R-Lane) released a statement on Tuesday outlining his disagreements with the recommendations.

Immigration has emerged as a highly debated issue in the state.

Earlier this year, Gov. Stitt signed a bill giving the state increased immigration enforcement powers. However, an ongoing legal challenge has blocked the enforcement of House Bill 4156.

Amid the immigration enforcement push, the governor signed an executive order directing the task force to explore the issue of work permits and visas.

The task force recommended creating an Office of New Oklahomans, facilitating hiring for needed jobs, optimizing credentialing, increasing work permits and visas, and issuing driving privilege cards to qualifying non-citizens.

In an interview with FOX 25, Rep. Humphrey argued “We do not need to listen to this liberal bullcrap that is just ‘Let’s invite illegals to Oklahoma and let’s give away our Oklahoma American dream to illegals.’ That’s no good.”

In his view, the state missed an opportunity to create a task force focused on addressing issues impacting current residents like inflation and the need for career training for inmates and those on parole.

Rep. Humphrey shared that legal immigrants are key employees on many farms and ranches in his district, but the current situation is overwhelming the country as everyday Americans struggle.

The lawmaker added, “If you’re a young man getting married right now, or a young woman, and want to start a family… how do you afford to even go out and afford rent, and afford, you know, if you wanted to buy your own home?”

David Castillo, president & CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, weighed in on the topic.

He noted, “I think it’s very admirable that… the governor… put this forward to get it started. Unfortunately, I feel like… with the climate in our legislature… I don’t think it’ll go very far, especially after listening to some of the racist reactions that came out.”

As Rep. Humphrey pushed back against such a characterization of his statements, Castillo argued the task force’s recommendations are a step in the right direction.