Oklahoma

Oklahoma Governor and Officials Criticized for Mishandling $39.9 Million in Federal Pandemic Aid, No Criminal Charges Filed

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Oklahoma City, OK – A recent investigation by a Multi-County Grand Jury into the management of federal pandemic aid by Governor Kevin Stitt’s administration and State Superintendent Ryan Walters has revealed a pattern of mismanagement. While no criminal charges will be filed, the jurors labeled the administration’s actions regarding the $39.9 million Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Fund (GEER) as “grossly negligent.” Attorney General Gentner Drummond initiated the probe into the use of the GEER funds earmarked for educational programs amid the COVID-19 crisis. Despite the findings of gross mismanagement, the Grand Jury determined that there … Read more

Osage County Court to Decide on Dismissal Request in Oklahoma Gas Price Manipulation Case

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Pawhuska, Oklahoma — A legal battle in Osage County is intensifying as an upcoming court hearing could determine the future of a high-profile lawsuit concerning alleged manipulation of natural gas prices. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond spearheaded the lawsuit against several energy producers, focusing on accusations during the crippling winter storm Uri in 2021. The hearing, scheduled for Tuesday afternoon in the Osage County District Court, was announced by Judge Stuart Tate. It will consider a motion filed by Enable Gathering and Processing, an Oklahoma-based company now part of Energy Transfer, which seeks either a … Read more

Oklahoma County Faces Social Service Shutdowns Impacting Vulnerable Populations Due to New Legislation

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OKLAHOMA CITY — Several social service programs crucial to the elderly and low-income residents in Oklahoma County are set to end this month due to a newly enacted state law. These include services like the Homeless Navigator Program, which helps connect the unhoused with various service providers, and the county’s pharmacy that offers free prescriptions to those in need. Leaders in Oklahoma County have expressed dissatisfaction with the law’s implications, stressing its adverse effects on the community’s most vulnerable groups. Joe Blough, the deputy chief commissioner of Oklahoma County’s first district, pinpointed the cause to … Read more

Payne County Gears Up for Smooth Voting as Officials Update Poll Workers on New Oklahoma Regulations

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Stillwater, Okla. — In light of recent legislative changes, election officials in Payne County are taking proactive measures to train poll workers thoroughly, ensuring a smooth and error-free process at the polls. These initiatives are seen as essential in maintaining the integrity and reliability of voting within the region. Payne County, like many counties across Oklahoma, faces unique challenges brought on by frequent changes in voting legislation. To address this, local election authorities have decided to intensify training programs for poll workers. These programs are designed to equip staff with the latest legal information and … Read more