Governor Kevin Stitt delivered his eighth and final State of the State address to a joint session of the Oklahoma Legislature, outlining a bold vision to cement the state’s recent progress and secure the American Dream for future generations. Reflecting on the past seven years, Stitt highlighted significant achievements in fiscal responsibility, education, and economic growth while challenging lawmakers to tackle remaining hurdles in his final year in office.
Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Growth
A central theme of the address was Oklahoma’s fiscal turnaround. Stitt proudly noted the state’s transition from budget deficits to historic savings, boasting over $5.5 billion in cash reserves.
“The state of our state is the strongest it’s ever been. And ladies and gentlemen, we’re not done yet.”
He credited this success to disciplined spending and strategic tax cuts, pointing out that his administration has reduced taxes by $1.6 billion and increased public education funding more than the previous 25 years combined.
Looking ahead, the Governor proposed codifying fiscal discipline into the state constitution.
“I’m calling for a state question on the ballot. Let’s codify a 3% annual cap on recurring spending growth in our constitution.”
He also urged the legislature to create a “Taxpayer Endowment Fund” seeded with $750 million, projecting it could grow to $3.2 billion in 20 years to provide sustainable revenue.
Education Reform and School Choice
Education remains a top priority for Stitt, who celebrated the success of open transfer policies and the expansion of charter schools. He praised Norman Public Schools for embracing open transfers and criticized barriers that prevent students from participating in extracurricular activities.
“It’s time to eliminate the OSSAA and secure our progress with open transfer. … You shouldn’t have to get permission from McDonald’s to open a Burger King across the street.”
He called for the removal of income caps on school choice programs to ensure universal access for all Oklahoma families.
“It’s time to make the program available to every Oklahoma family who wants it. Let’s eliminate the cap. Let the money follow the student.”
Public Safety and the Marijuana Industry
Addressing public safety, Stitt took a firm stance on the state’s medical marijuana industry, which he characterized as being exploited by foreign criminal interests.
“We have more dispensaries than we do pharmacies. Think about that. … We can’t put a band-aid on a broken bone. … send the marijuana issue back to a vote of the people and let’s shut it down.”
He framed this as a necessary step to restore safety and order to Oklahoma communities.
One Oklahoma: Unity and Sovereignty
Stitt passionately argued for a unified state legal system, directly addressing the complexities arising from the McGirt decision. He called for equal application of the law regardless of race or heritage.
“I implore you to fight for one Oklahoma. For fairness, transparency, and for state sovereignty. … All laws should apply equally to all Oklahomans, no exceptions.”
He challenged lawmakers and citizens to reject division and embrace a shared identity as Oklahomans.
Investing in the Next Generation
Inspired by private sector initiatives, Stitt championed the concept of investing in Oklahoma’s children from birth. He highlighted a new program to provide investment accounts for children, bolstered by private contributions.
“If we reappropriate $12 million of existing funds, we can add $250 to every Oklahoma kid’s account this year.”
A Call to Action
In his closing remarks, Governor Stitt urged legislators to look beyond the next election and make decisions that will benefit the state for decades to come.
“Our choices will take us to the next level or back to the struggles we’ve turned away from. We have a rendezvous with destiny. Let’s grab it with the tenacity and grit that sets us apart as Oklahomans.”
As Stitt enters his final year, his agenda is clear: solidify fiscal conservatism, expand educational freedom, unify the state’s legal framework, and ensure a safe and prosperous Oklahoma for the next generation.
