Bartlesville Radio: The area’s best source for news, weather and sports!

The Oklahoma Senate is already laying the groundwork for the 2027 legislative session after Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton approved a slate of interim studies for the 2026 legislative interim. The studies, which will be assigned to Senate committees and wrapped up by Oct. 30, are designed to give lawmakers time to dig into issues before the next session begins instead of trying to solve everything in a caffeine-fueled sprint after the opening gavel. Hearing dates will be announced by committee chairs, with all meetings open to the public and livestreamed on the Oklahoma Senate website. In a world where government is often accused of moving slower than a tractor stuck in an Oklahoma mud hole, at least they're getting an early start this time.

Paxton also announced leadership changes to the Senate Public Safety Committee following former Sen. Darrell Weaver's resignation to become Cleveland County Sheriff. Sen. Warren Hamilton of McCurtain County will serve as committee chairman, with Sen. Spencer Kern of Duncan stepping in as vice chairman. Paxton pointed to Hamilton's military service, reserve deputy sheriff experience, and record on public safety legislation as reasons for the appointment, while praising Kern's leadership since taking office in 2024. For a state that generally prefers stronger law enforcement over more bureaucracy, the move is likely to be welcomed.