While the number of active COVID-19 cases across state of Oklahoma are declining, the number of deaths attributed to the virus are continuing to climb. In the latest numbers from the Oklahoma State Department of Health, active caseload has declined by more than 10,000 in the two weeks since its last peak, but the seven-day rolling death average is at an all-time high of 42.7 per day.
Read MoreThe Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 1,006 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday afternoon, and though active cases are below the state’s record-high, current hospitalizations have hit a new peak for the second-straight day.
Oklahoma’s last record-high hospitalization number was 663, set on July 29th when there were only 6,714 active cases in the state. For two months active case total continued to climb, while hospitalization declined, but on Tuesday that number rose to 699, and on Wednesday it hit 738.
There are 13,066 active cases in Oklahoma, down from a record of 13,379 set on September 28th. The seven-day rolling average for new cases is 1,022, down from a peak of 1,136 on September 25th.
There have been 1,075 deaths from the virus in Oklahoma, and nine more were reported Wednesday, including one in Tulsa County. The seven-day rolling death average is 6.3, down from a peak of 10.4 on August 30th.
The city of Sand Springs reported a record-high single day increase of 21 cases on Tuesday, bringing the town’s active total to a record-high 87, but no new cases were reported Wednesday and the total declined to 81. There have been five deaths in the town. There are 1,769 active cases in Tulsa County and 1,108 in the city of Tulsa.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported 7,475,262 cases nationwide since the pandemic began with 210,232 total deaths. There have been 307,191 cases in the last seven days.
Oklahoma ranks 27th in total cases but is 15th in cases in the past seven days, and eighth in per capita cases in the past seven days. The state is 25th in per capita deaths in the past seven days.
The World Health Organization is reporting 35,659,007 cases since the pandemic began with 1,044,269 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by India with 6,757,131, Brazil with 4,927,235, and Russia with 1,248,619.
The state of Oklahoma surpassed 10,000 active cases of COVID-19 for the first time Monday morning, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health situation report. The department reported 869 new cases, but zero new deaths. There are currently 499 Oklahomans hospitalized from the virus, down from a record-high 663 in late July.
The state has now processed over a million specimen and returned 70,223 positive cases for a 7.02% positivity rate overall. The seven day moving average is at 8.7% according to Johns Hopkins.
Friday’s weekly epidemiology report showed 5,673 new cases, 5,084 recoveries, and 41 deaths between September 4th and 10th. Persons aged 50 and over accounted for only 31% of cases, but 96% of deaths. 74.7% of victims suffered at least one comorbidity.
The city of Sand Springs reached 400 total cases since the pandemic began, and is currently sitting at 64 active cases, down from 74 last Tuesday. There are 1,041 active cases in the city of Tulsa, and 1,639 active cases in Tulsa County.
Oklahoma ranks 29th out of 50 states in total cases (27th per capita) but is 16th in new cases in the past seven days (4th per capita). The state is 33rd in total deaths (37th per capita) and 25th in new deaths in the past week (23rd per capita).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 6,503,030 total cases since the pandemic began with 35,549 new cases in the past day and 241,814 cases in the past week. There have been 193,705 total deaths and 510 deaths since yesterday.
The World Health Organization is reporting 28,918,900 cumulative cases worldwide and 922,252 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in cases, followed by India with 4,846,427 and Brazil with 4,315,687.
According to the latest report from the White House Coronavirus Task Force, Oklahoma is in the red zone for cases and the yellow zone for test positivity, with the eighth highest rate in the nation. For the past month, the task force has been recommending that Oklahoma mandate masks statewide, and close bars.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 666 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, along with 19 deaths.
One in Cherokee County, one female in the 36 - 49 age group.
One in Creek County, one male in the 50 - 64 age group.
One in Garfield County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
One in Haskell County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
One in Jackson County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
One in Mayes County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
One in Murray County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
Three in Oklahoma County, one male in the 36 - 49 age group and one female and one male in the 65 or older group.
One in Pittsburg County, one female in the 65 or older age group.
Seven in Rogers County, one female and six males in the 65 or older age group.
One in Sequoyah County, one female in 65 or older age group.
There have been 763 deaths since the pandemic reached Oklahoma. 533 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, down from a peak of 663 in late July. 63 deaths have been reported in the past week. 7,661 cases are currently active, down from a peak of 8,132 on Monday.
In Sand Springs there are 31 active cases, down from a peak of 56 on August 10th. Tulsa County is reporting 1,513 active cases. The county is currently in the Orange (Moderate) risk level.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 5,752,653 total cases nationwide since the pandemic began. There have been 177,759 deaths. In the past day there have been 37,086 new cases and 1,142 new deaths reported.
Oklahoma ranks 30th in total cases, 27th in cases per capita, and ninth in per capita cases in the past seven days. The state is 33rd in total deaths, 37th in deaths per capita, and 23rd in total deaths in the past seven days.
The World Health Organization is reporting 23,752,965 cumulative cases worldwide with 815,038 deaths. America currently leads the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 3,622,861 and India with 3,234,474.
OKLAHOMA CITY – In response to the flood of inmates challenging their state convictions on historic tribal lands, including those lands not associated with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Attorney General Mike Hunter today plans to file a brief with the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals that seeks guidance on these many cases affected by the U.S. Supreme Court’s McGirt ruling.
In the filing, the attorney general writes that the U.S. Supreme Court created numerous issues that could result in the release of inmates convicted of violent crimes, like Shaun Bosse, a non-Indian who is on death row for murdering a Chickasaw family—a mother and her two children—in 2010.
Bosse is challenging his conviction on the basis that his crimes took place on the undiminished boundaries of the original Chickasaw Reservation.
“My team and I plan to challenge every single appeal that attempts to overturn longstanding convictions on historic tribal land,” Attorney General Hunter said. “We are not questioning the Supreme Court’s ruling in McGirt, but instead seeking to promote public safety by saying these convicted criminals waited too long to bring their claims. Also, we are asking the court to make clear that the state still has jurisdiction to punish non-Indians who victimize tribal citizens, which would provide the maximum possible protection to tribal members. In the meantime, we are asking the Court of Criminal Appeals to provide guidance on these cases and deny any requests by inmates attempting to get released from prison.”
One question the attorney general points to in the Bosse case is whether the state has jurisdiction, concurrently with the federal government over non-Indians, like Bosse, who victimized tribal citizens.
“We take the position that the state has a right and duty to protect our Indian citizens from those who murder them like Bosse,” Attorney General Hunter said. “There can be no good that comes from tying the state’s hands when we are trying to protect Native Americans by exercising jurisdiction over non-Indians. This is no way undermines tribal sovereignty, but instead is a way for the state to work with the federal government in making sure tribal members receive police protection and justice when they are victimized.”
The attorney general is also asking the court to clarify how Indian status is to be proven, and to put the burden of proving Indian status on the defendant and that the location of the crime fell within the boundaries of a legal reservation.
Nearly 400 miles of rural interstates in Oklahoma will be shifting up to a maximum speed limit of 75 mph in the coming months. Drivers will only see these changes outside of the major metro areas of these routes, and should pay close attention to safety during this transition.
At its August 3 meeting, the Oklahoma Transportation Commission approved six locations on I-35 and I-40 to change the maximum speed limit from 70 mph to 75 mph on 179 miles of identified rural sections of I-35 and on 220 miles of I-40. These segments include:
I-35 from the Oklahoma/Texas state line, north 90 miles to just south of the SH-74 junction near Purcell
I-35 from the Oklahoma/Kansas state line, south 89 miles to Waterloo Rd. near the Oklahoma/Logan County line
I-40 from the Oklahoma/Texas state line, east 32 miles to near the SH-34 junction west of Elk City
I-40 from just east of the Beckham/Washita County line, east 22 miles to two miles west of the US-183 junction in Clinton
I-40 from just west of the Custer/Caddo County line, east 50 miles to just east of Frisco Rd. near Yukon
I-40 from just east of the SH-18 junction near Shawnee, east 116 miles to just west of the CR 4570 (Dwight Mission Rd.) junction west of Sallisaw.
The recent passage of HB 1071 set the stage for statewide studies on potential maximum speed limit increases to 75 mph on rural interstates and 80 mph on rural turnpikes. Both the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority carefully studied potential locations to be candidates on each of their systems. Criteria was safety-driven and included factors like roadway geometry, sight distance, collision history, traffic flows and existing speed patterns to determine eligible locations. Larger metro areas along interstates such as Oklahoma City and Tulsa were not considered for changes as part of this process, but could see changes in the future depending on how drivers handle the current increases.
“We appreciate the vision of Rep. Daniel Pae and his fellow legislators to help both agencies take a big-picture look at our system for areas which made sense for a speed limit change,” Oklahoma Secretary of Transportation Tim Gatz said. “We know drivers are looking forward to seeing these changes, and we urge them to do their part for safety by following posted speeds and being alert to the surrounding traffic conditions.”
Until the new signs are in place, the old posted speed limits will remain the enforced speed. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol urges drivers to pay close attention to the posted speed limits on their route or risk a ticket. Discussions with safety and law enforcement partners have been invaluable to this process and will be ongoing, especially to help monitor the changes and determine if any adjustments need to be considered for safety.
In late July, the OTA Board approved changes for an 80 mph maximum speed limit on rural segments of six turnpikes, totaling 104 miles. Work will be ongoing for several months to manufacture and install new signs in all of these interstate and turnpike corridors.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a record-breaking 1,714 new cases Tuesday afternoon, but many of those cases should have been reported over the past two days. After averaging over 750 new cases per day over the prior week, the OSDH reported only 209 new cases on Sunday and 168 on Monday.
“Due to technical data entry issues, case counts for Sunday, July 19 and Monday, July 20 are low and do not reflect real-time data,” read the OSDH Monday Situation Report. “OSDH’s Acute Disease Service is working diligently to resolve these technical issues and will continue to provide reporting of COVID-19 information that Oklahomans have come to expect from OSDH. In the meantime, Oklahomans who receive a positive test result through a State lab will continue to be promptly notified and connected to contract tracing efforts.”
“OSDH’s number one priority is making COVID-19 testing widely available and efficient for the public as well as operating an effective, and trusted, contact tracing program. During this time of increased demand, OSDH is prioritizing manpower and resources to communicate positive results and to provide medical guidance for quarantining and minimizing spread,” said interim Commissioner Lance Frye. “We recognize the significant challenges we’ve experienced with outdated systems, and are working to modernize processes and incorporate new technology to streamline operations and improve critical customer services during the pandemic.”
“In its efforts to continuously develop robust contact tracing across the State, the OSDH will begin using text messaging in addition to phone calls to reach out to contacts. We will release more information on this new development including what contacts can expect to see in a text notification.”
Tuesday’s report brought the state’s cumulative case total to 27,147 with 20,663 recoveries and a record-high 6,023 active cases. 613 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, down from a peak of 638 on Thursday.
Oklahoma has seen 461 total fatalities from the pandemic, including nine new deaths reported Tuesday.
One in McCurtain County, one male in the 50 - 64 age group.
One in Noble County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
Three in Oklahoma County, one female in the 36 - 49 age group and two males in the 65 or older age group.
One in Pottawatomie County, one female in the 65 or older age group.
One in Rogers County, one male in the 65 or older age group.
Two in Tulsa County, two females in the 65 or older age group.
In Sand Springs there are 27 active cases. 129 Sandites have been diagnosed with the virus, 100 have recovered, and two have died. There are 1,174 active cases in Tulsa County and 818 in the city of Tulsa.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,819,139 cases nationwide with 14,630 deaths. There have been 57,777 new cases and 473 deaths reported in the past day.
Oklahoma currently ranks 32nd in total cases (39th per capita), but is 16th in per capita cases reported in the past seven days. The state is 34th in total deaths (39th per capita) and 33rd in deaths in the past seven days.
The World Health Organization is reporting 14,562,550 cases worldwide with 607,781 deaths. There have been 213,637 new cases and 4,083 deaths reported in the past day. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 2,098,389 and India with 1,155,191.
Jamie Oldaker performs with The Rogues Five at the 2017 Riverfest in Sand Springs.
Jamie Oldaker, a famous drummer with ties to Sand Springs, died Thursday at 68 years old. While Oldaker claimed Tulsa as his hometown, part of his rise to fame came from playing with Sand Springs band The Rogues Five in the 1960s.
Oldaker and his band of teenagers formed The Rogues Five in the 1960s and soon developed a large following in the Tulsa area. The band included I.J. Ganem, Randy Ess, Philip Wilson, and Bard Coats. They opened for Jim Morrison and The Doors and other famous bands at the Tulsa Convention Center and performed regularly on the KOTV show “Dance Party.” The band has held reunion shows over the years, including at the 2017 Riverfest in Sand Springs.
After departing Tulsa to pursue a solo career, Oldaker performed on The Ed Sullivan Show. He started the band Tulsa County, then joined the Bob Seger Band for their album “Back in ‘72.” As a session musician with Shelter Records, he recorded with Leon Russell, The Gap Band, and Georgie Fame, and later toured with Russell.
In 1974 Oldaker recorded the album “461 Ocean Blvd” with Eric Clapton, which included the hit song “I Shot The Sheriff,” and went on to record several other albums with Clapton. He continued to divide his time touring with both Clapton and Seger. He then joined up with Peter Frampton for a tour, and recorded the album “Where I Should Be.”
In 1986 he helped launch the career of country artist Ronnie Dunn, managing and performing alongside the future Brooks N Dunn artist. Beginning in 1988 he teamed up with KISS member Ace Frehley for several tours and music videos, while continuing his work with Frampton and Clapton.
In 1988 he helped found The Tractors. The country band’s self-titled debut album was certified 2X Platinum and they received two Grammy nominations.
In 2005 Oldaker released the album “Jamie Oldaker’s Mad Dogs & Okies,” which featured guest appearances from Clapton, Frampton, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, and other musicians he has worked with over the years.
In 2010 Oldaker was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame alongside Sand Springs singer Sam Harris.
Oldaker battled lung cancer for years, going through chemo and radiation therapy. He died at his home in Tulsa, surrounded by family. Several of his fellow musicians posted messages on social media Thursday, in honor of their friend.
“We are overwhelmingly saddened to report that our dear friend and brother Jamie Oldaker has passed away,” posted The Rogues Five. “He will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Mary and family. Rest in Peace Jam-O.”
“Jamie Oldaker has been my dear friend and brother for over 40 years,” posted Frampton. “He was a very warm, caring, true friend with a gentle heart. HE cared about us all almost more than he did himself. Most will know him as the drummer on Eric Clapton’s albums. His playing was unique, a laid back style of drumming with an incredible feel. We traveled the world, played many wonderful shows and great recordings together. He was much loved and I will miss him for the rest of my time here. Love you Jamie.”
OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Mike Hunter and tribal leaders collaborating after the McGirt v. Oklahoma decision today released an agreement in principle for proposed federal legislation that will clarify respective state and tribal jurisdiction in both criminal and civil matters.
The full agreement is included below.
The attorney general released the following statement on the progress being made.
“Although there are many more details to be ironed out in the near future, we believe this agreement regarding civil and criminal jurisdiction is the best path forward for protecting the public and promoting continued economic growth in Oklahoma,” Attorney General Hunter said. “My commitment to our tribal partners is to work together to forge common ground on the issues brought to light by this case. Oklahoma’s tribal nations are a fundamental part of Oklahoma’s culture, economy, politics and governance. The relationship between the tribes and my office is based on trust and mutual respect. And that synergism has been essential to the successful formation of this important agreement.”
In addition to today’s announcement, the state and the tribes are continuing to collaborate on the immediate provision of public safety on-the-ground, including law enforcement and child welfare matters.
Murphy/McGirt Agreement-in-Principle
With the Supreme Court cases of Sharp v. Murphy and McGirt v. Oklahoma in mind, the Five Tribes and the State of Oklahoma believe intergovernmental cooperation will best serve our shared interests in consistency, predictability, and a mutual respect for sovereign rights and interests. To this end, the Five Tribes and the Oklahoma Office of the Attorney General (OAG) look forward to working with the U.S. Department of Justice and Oklahoma’s congressional delegation in crafting proposed legislation that generally (1) recognizes tribal sovereignty, jurisdiction, and the continued importance of the Five Tribes’ respective boundaries set out in treaties and statutes while (2) also affirming continuity of the State of Oklahoma’s jurisdiction within Eastern Oklahoma but outside of Indian trust or restricted lands (meaning, those lands held in trust by the United States on behalf of the Tribe or an individual Tribal member or citizen, restricted title lands, and Tribal treaty lands that have never been allotted), subject to limitations concerning Tribes and Tribal hunting, fishing, or water rights protected by treaty or other Federal law.
Accordingly, the Five Tribes and OAG today recommend to Oklahoma’s congressional delegation a set of principles that memorialize our shared position. Our goal is to see these principles implemented in appropriate Federal law for purposes of enhancing and clarifying respective State and Tribal jurisdiction, both criminal and civil, without limiting the jurisdiction or immunities of either the State or any Nation. We believe implementation of these principles will preserve sovereign interests and rights to self-government while affirming jurisdictional understandings, procedures, laws, and regulations that support public safety, our economy, and property rights.
Criminal Jurisdiction: Presently, the Federal government has law enforcement jurisdiction within the Nations’ treaty territories. With respect to criminal matters, the legislation should:
Affirm the Five Tribes’ criminal jurisdiction throughout their respective treaty territories over Indian offenders, as well as those non-Indian offenders over which federally-recognized tribes generally have jurisdiction in Indian country, such as domestic abusers covered by the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013;
Provide and affirm the State’s criminal jurisdiction over all offenders throughout that same area, including appropriate and legal mechanisms to address matters concerning existing convictions, with the exception of crimes involving Indians committed on Indian trust or restricted lands; and
Authorize and direct the U.S. Department of Justice to coordinate with the State and Nations concerning deployment of law enforcement resources and respective authorities under the law.
Civil Jurisdiction: With respect to civil jurisdiction, including the ability to legislate, regulate, tax, and adjudicate on non-criminal matters, legislation should:
Affirm the Five Tribes’ civil jurisdiction throughout their respective treaty territories, to be exercised subject to Federal law that generally governs Tribal civil jurisdiction in Indian country. The Five Tribes would accordingly be affirmed in their civil jurisdiction over, for example, matters of self-government and their members but would remain subject to the Federal law that provides, as a general matter, that Tribes do not have civil jurisdiction over non-members outside Indian trust or restricted lands, as described above, except for (1) subject matters for which Federal law specifically grants Tribes jurisdiction; (2) activities of non-members that are part of a consensual relationship, such as contracts, with the Tribe; or (3) conduct of non-members that threatens Tribal self-governance or the economic security, health, or welfare of the Tribe.
Provide and affirm the State’s civil jurisdiction over all persons throughout the treaty territories, except on Indian trust or restricted lands, but legislation would not grant the State jurisdiction to regulate or tax, directly or indirectly, any Tribe, Tribal official, or entities owned or operated by one of the Five Tribes. Also, the legislation would not affect jurisdiction over Tribal rights relating to hunting, fishing, or water that are protected by Federal law.
General Provisions: In addition, the legislation should:
Protect Tribal sovereignty and consistency in law enforcement by affirming that only the Nations will exercise Tribal jurisdiction within their respective treaty territory.
Allocate resources sufficient to ensure public safety and effective law enforcement.
Each of these components would reaffirm or expand upon the Tribes’ and the State’s sovereign authorities and should not be read as limiting any authority possessed prior to legislation being enacted, including any sovereign immunity.
We recognize that details about how these broad principles will be worked out in particular situations will require further development. Accordingly, we believe the legislation should encourage the State and Nations to resolve any remaining concerns through intergovernmental compacting, while providing also that it does not alter or terminate any existing compact or other intergovernmental agreement between the State and one of the Five Tribes.
(Oklahoma City) – Republican Party candidates will appear first on Oklahoma’s November General Election ballots following the results of a public drawing held Thursday, Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax announced. Libertarian Party candidates will be listed second, followed by Democratic Party candidates.
State law requires the State Election Board secretary to conduct a drawing every two years to determine the order of political parties on the ballot. Representatives of the three political parties observed the drawing at the State Election Board’s meeting room at the Jim Thorpe Building in Oklahoma City. The drawing was also livestreamed on the State Election Board’s Facebook page.
Drawings were also held to determine the order of Independent candidates for President of the United States and United States Senator.
For more information about elections in Oklahoma, visit the State Election Board’s website at https://www.ok.gov/elections/.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 628 new cases of COVID-19 Thursday. For the first time in eleven days, the number of active cases went down instead of up, dipping to 4,908 after peaking at 5,015 the day before. Current hospitalizations continued to rise, however, reaching a record-high 638.
There have been six additional deaths linked to the virus: a McCurtain County female in the 65+ age demographic, an Oklahoma County female in the 65+ demographic, an Osage County male in the 65+ group, a Rogers County male in the 65+ group, a Tulsa County female in the 50-64 group; and a Tulsa County male in the 65+ group. There have been 438 total deaths in Oklahoma.
In Sand Springs there have been five new cases reported in the past 24 hours, with three more recoveries. There are 17 active cases in the town. Tulsa County currently has 1,080 active cases and remains in the “Moderate Risk” category.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,483,832 cases and 136,938 deaths nationwide. There have been a record-high 67,404 new cases reported in the past 24 hours, along with 947 new deaths. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (38th per capita) and 34th in total deaths (39th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 13,378,853 cases and 580,045 deaths worldwide with 226,181 cases and 5,579 deaths in the last 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,926,824 and India with 968,876.
For the second straight day, the Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a new record for single-day increases in COVID-19 cases. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith were among the 1,075 new cases reported Wednesday. Four more deaths have been reported, bringing the statewide death toll to 432. A record-high 561 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized and there are a record-high 5,015 active cases across the state.
In Sand Springs there were no new cases reported for the first time in five days, and one new recovery dropped the number of active cases to 15. Tulsa County is reporting 1,112 active cases.
Walmart announced Wednesday that the company will be requiring masks at all Walmart and Sam’s Club locations, nationwide, beginning Monday, July 20th. According to a press release, about 65% of the company’s 5,000+ stores are located in areas where there is some form of government mandate on face coverings.
Walmart has created a new Health Ambassador position to aid in the transition. Ambassadors will be located at the entrances to the stores to inform customers of the new requirement. Ambassadors will also be trained to make exceptions in certain circumstances.
The Tulsa City Council is expected to vote on a mandatory mask ordinance Wednesday. The proposed ordinance would require “a face covering over the nose and mouth worn consistent with CDC guidelines when inside a commercial entity or other building, structure, or space open to the public, or when in an outdoor public space wherever it is not feasibly to maintain six feet of social distancing from another person not in the same household.”
A person in first-time violation of the ordinance would receive a verbal or written warning. Repeat violators would be subject to a fine of up to $100.00. There are several exceptions, however. The requirement would not apply to:
any person younger than 18 years of age;
any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering;
any person who is consuming food or drink, or who is seated at a restaurant;
any person who is engaging in a physical activity outdoors and who is maintaining a safe distance from other people;
any person who is driving alone or with passengers from the same household;
any person obtaining a service that requires temporary removal of the face covering for security surveillance, screening, or a need for specific access to the face, such as while visiting a bank or while or while obtaining a personal care or dental service involving the face;
any person in a swimming pool, lake, or similar body of water;
any person who is voting, assisting a voter, serving as a poll watcher, or actively administering an election;
any person who is actively providing or obtaining access to religious worship;
any person who is giving a speech for a broadcast or to an audience;
any person performing work in which face coverings present or exacerbates a hazard.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are currently reporting 3,416,428 cases and 135,991 deaths nationwide, with 60,971 new cases and 773 deaths in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma ranks 32nd in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in deaths (39th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 13,150,645 cases and 574,464 deaths worldwide with 185,836 new cases and 4,176 deaths in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,884,967 and India with 936,181.
Oklahoma COVID-19 Alert System.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported new records for single-day increase in COVID-19 cases, current active cases, and current hospitalizations Tuesday. 993 new cases were reported over the past 24 hours, along with four deaths and 546 hospitalizations. 4,675 Oklahomans currently have the virus, and 21,738 have contracted it since the pandemic began.
Of the four deaths reported Tuesday: one was a McCurtain County male in the 65+ age demographic, one was an Oklahoma County woman in the 65+ demographic, one was a Tulsa County male in the 50-64 age range, and one was a Tulsa County woman in the 18-35 group. There have been 428 deaths since the pandemic began.
Sand Springs saw an increase of three cases since Monday, with an equal number of recoveries. Active cases in the town held at 16, down from a peak of 21. Tulsa County is reporting 1,099 active cases. Tulsa County is currently in the Moderate-Risk Phase of the Oklahoma COVID-19 Alert System.
Oklahoma’s hospital beds are currently at 15.5% capacity with 2,974 total beds remaining. The Adult Intensive Care Units are at 80% capacity, with 197 beds remaining. There are 711 ventilators available in the state.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,296,599 cases nationwide with 134,884 deaths. There have been 60,469 new cases and 312 new deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma ranks 33rd in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in total deaths (38th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 12,964,809 cases worldwide with 570,288 deaths. There have been 196,775 new cases reported in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,864,681 and India with 906,752.
Oklahoma County alert graphic.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 510 new cases of COVID-19 Monday, bringing the cumulative total to 20,745 since the pandemic began. There have been 15,815 recoveries and 424 deaths, leaving a new record-high of 4,506 active cases.
499 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized - the most since the pandemic began. Oklahoma hospital beds are currently at 20.3% capacity overall, and Adult ICU is at 82% capacity.
Sand Springs reported one new case on Monday, bringing the cumulative total to 98. Two more Sandites recovered from the virus, leaving 16 active cases. Tulsa County currently has 1,143 active cases.
The OSDH reported the state’s first pediatric death from COVID-19 Sunday evening. “I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of the state’s first child impacted by COVID-19 since the pandemic arrived in Oklahoma,” said Interim Health Commissioner Lance Frye, MD. “Our prayers are with the family and community as they mourn the loss of a young, innocent life. It is critical for Oklahomans to partner with us in following the latest public health guidance to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and protect our most vulnerable populations. Wash your hands often, limit social engagements, and consider wearing a mask where physical distancing is challenging.”
Commissioner Frye and the OSDH would like to remind Oklahomans that preventive measures - including frequently washing hands, limiting social engagements and wearing a mask where physical distancing is challenging – are essential actions to take as the threat of the virus remains within our communities.
OSDH provides free COVID-19 testing at 80 locations throughout Oklahoma and encourages everyone to get tested. An interactive map of testing sites can be found by clicking here.
“This heartbreaking tragedy underscores how important it is for us all to wear masks when in public, follow social distancing guidelines and practice good hygiene,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister.
“Students need to learn. We want schools to reopen this fall, but for that to happen, it is critical that Oklahomans take decisive actions now to mitigate spread of the virus. Wearing a mask around other people is a small sacrifice for the sake of literally saving lives. We owe it to our children, teachers and staff for them to be able to go to school knowing that strong safeguards are in place for their safety and well-being.”
Hofmeister acknowledged that some parents might find distance learning to be a preferable course of action. She commended many school districts that are providing such options for their families.
“School is vital, especially after the significant learning loss from last spring’s building closures,” she said. “At the same time, we must take every precaution to protect our children and those who serve in schools across this state.”
Sunday’s death is the first in Oklahoma in the 5-17 age demographic. There have been 6 deaths in the 18-35 demographic, 10 in the 36-49 age range, 67 in the 50-64 range, and 340 in the 65+ group.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 3,296,599 cases nationwide with 134,884 deaths. There have been 60,469 new cases and 312 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma is 33rd in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in deaths (38th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 12,768,307 cumulative cases and 566,654 deaths worldwide. There have been 215,539 new cases and 5,037 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. The United State continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,839,850 and India with 878,254.
The OSDH launched a new COVID-19 alert system Thursday, color-coding counties according to risk level.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported 596 new cases of COVID-19 Friday, bringing the cumulative total to 19,092 since the pandemic began. Active cases have surpassed 4,000 for the first time, and a record-high 487 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized. There have been six new deaths reported, bringing the statewide death toll to 416.
Sand Springs reported no new cases for the second straight day. Two more Sandites have recovered from the virus, leaving 17 active cases.
On Thursday the OSDH launched a new COVID-19 alert system that offers the public and local elected officials a clear method to recognize and communicate the current COVID-19 risk level in each county and to guide health behaviors.
The Oklahoma COVID-19 Alert System is a four-tiered risk measurement tool with corresponding color categories that identify the current COVID-19 risk level by county.
“This new COVID-19 alert system marries OSDH’s robust data reporting with additional public health steps that should be considered county by county to confront elevated risks of community spread,” said Interim Health Commissioner Lance Frye, M.D. “The color-coded system is an easy way for business owners, local leaders, and the public to know at a glance when extra precautions should be taken.”
Each color category is based on daily new cases per 100,000 population. The color-coded county map will be updated every Friday as part of the agency’s 11 a.m. Situation Media Advisory and will be based on the 7-day rolling average:
Green: 0 < 1.43 daily new cases per 100,000 population
Yellow: 43 < 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 population
Orange: > 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 population
Red: > 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 plus one of four additional gates triggered
OSDH will deem a county as in a high-risk phase if the county is reporting more than 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 and one or more of the four thresholds occur in the State within a given week.
Statewide ICU threshold: Percent of ICU beds available <5% statewide
Statewide Medical/Surgical threshold: Percent of medical surgery beds available <5% statewide
Statewide Ventilator threshold: Percent of ventilators available <5% statewide
Facility PPE threshold: Average days of PPE on hand and available < 5 days statewide
The State will work with local officials in red counties on a remediation plan.
The red phase is triggered when additionally assessing statewide health system capacity definitions, assumptions and plans in the Oklahoma Hospital Surge Planning Toolkit and with assessing numbers based on hospitals’ bed capacity at 100%. This status indicates statewide, systemic challenges and pressures on the healthcare system resulting from COVID-19.
This new alert system is subject to further revisions. Guidance for each risk category is available for individuals, businesses, high-risk individuals, and children on the COVID-19 dashboard at coronavirus.health.ok.gov.
Tulsa County is currently listed in the Moderate (orange) risk phase with 75 total deaths and 996 active cases. The moderate risk phase indicates greater than 14.39 daily new cases per 100,000 population. On Friday, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum announced that he has directed the City of Tulsa Legal Department to draft an ordinance for consideration by City Council at their next Wednesday meeting. The ordinance, if passed, will require face-coverings in public places.
The Centers for Disease Control and prevention are reporting 3,106,931 cumulative cases nationwide with 132,855 deaths. There have been 59,260 new cases and 799 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma currently ranks 34th in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in total deaths (37th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 12,102,328 total cases worldwide with 551,046 deaths. There have been 228,102 new cases reported in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,713,160 and India with 793,802.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health reported a new record increase in COVID-19 cases Tuesday. The 858 new cases are a significant increase over the previous single-day record of 585 reported June 30th. The state has totaled 17,220 cases since the pandemic began, with 13,005 recoveries, leaving a new high of 3,811 active cases.
426 Oklahomans are currently hospitalized, the highest number since the pandemic began. The previous high was 374 on July 1st. 1,741 total Oklahomans have been hospitalized since February. Statewide adult ICU bed availability is currently at 23%. Five new deaths were reported Tuesday, bringing the statewide death toll to 404.
The city of Sand Springs reported three new cases Tuesday, bringing the total to 86. There have been two deaths and 66 recoveries, leaving 18 active cases. In Tulsa County there have been 4,365 total cases with 71 deaths and 3,294 recoveries, leaving 1,000 active cases.
There have been 371,798 negative COVID tests in Oklahoma. The OSDH has launched a drive-through testing location portal at this link.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 2,932,596 cases nationwide with 130,133 deaths. There have been 46,329 cases and 322 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma is 34th in total cases (39th per capita) and 34th in total deaths (36th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 11,500,302 cases worldwide with 535,759 deaths. There have been 172,512 new cases reported in the past 24 hours. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,603,055 and India with 719,665.
Nearly 700,000 Oklahoma voters turned out Tuesday to vote in the statewide primaries, and to vote on a State Question for Medicaid expansion. State Question No. 802 narrowly passed with 339,747 votes (50.48%) in favor and 333,311 (49.52%) against.
Republican incumbent Todd Hiett handily won his party’s nomination for Corporation Commissioner with 74.58% of the vote, defeating Harold D. Spradling. Hiett, 52, is a Kellyville native and career politician, serving in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 1995 till 2007. He ran an unsuccessful campaign for Lieutenant Governor in 2006, but won the Corporation Commissioner race in 2014. In November he will face Libertarian candidate Todd Hagopian of Bixby.
Republican incumbent Jim Inhofe won a landslide victory for the United States Senator nomination with 74.05% of the vote in a four-man field. Inhofe, 85, has held the office since 1994, and previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives and as Mayor of Tulsa. Abby Broyles, 31, won a four-way race for the Democratic Party nomination for United State Senator. Broyles is an attorney and former broadcast journalist. Broyles and Inhofe will take on Libertarian Robert Murphy and Independents Joan Farr and A.D. Nesbit in November.
Kojo Asamoa-Caesar, 34, won the Democratic nomination for Congressional District No. 1, defeating Mark A. Keeter with 63.63% of the vote. Asamoa-Caesar is a former kindergarten teacher, elementary school principal, and interim director of 36 Degrees North. He will take on Republican incumbent Kevin Hern, 58, and Independent candidate Evelyn L. Rogers, 67, in November.
Republican incumbent Markwayne Mullin, 42, easily held off two primary challengers in the race for Congressional District No. 2. He earned 79.91% of the vote to defeat Joseph Silk (12.7%) and Rhonda Hopkins (7.39%). The Muskogee resident was a rancher and businessman before running for office in 2012.
During his first campaign Mullin promised to only serve for three terms, but announced in 2017 that he would run for a fourth term after all, and is now pursuing his fifth. He will take on Democrat Danyell Lanier and Libertarian Richie Castaldo in November.
Republican incumbent Tom Cole, 71, of Norman, won a landslide race for Congressional District No. 4. He earned 76.34% of the vote to defeat James Taylor (15.18%), Trevor Sipes (5.97%), and Gilbert O. Sanders (2.51%). The former college professor has been a career politician since 1988 and assumed his current office in 2002.
Mary Brannon, 68, won a three-way race for the Democratic nomination for Congressional District No. 4. She received 63.85% of the vote to defeat David R. Slemmons (19.42%) and John D. Argo (16.73%). The retired teacher and school counselor previously won the Democratic nomination in 2018 and received 33.0% of the vote against Tom Cole. Brannon and Cole will take on Libertarian Bob White in November.
Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District saw a field of nine Republicans seeking nomination. Terry Neese, 72, and Stephanie Bice, 46, both of Oklahoma City, will advance to a runoff in August. Neese, an entrepreneur, received 36.49% of the vote and Bice, a State Sentor, received 25.41%. Democratic incumbent Kendra Horn, 44, defeated party challenger Tom Guild in a landslide with 85.69% of the vote.
Cody Rogers won the Republican nomination for State Senate District No. 37 with 50.88% of the vote against Chris Emerson. Rogers, 32, owns a Tulsa paving company. He will take on incumbent Democrat Allison Ikley-Freeman in November.
Republican incumbent Jadine Nollan handily won the nomination for House District 66 against challenger Emily DeLozier. Nollan, 61, received 69.12% of the vote and will take on Tulsa Democrat Greg Laird in November.
Tulsa County Court Clerk incumbent Don Newberry won a landslide race in the Republican primary with 75.2% of the vote against Ron Phillips. Newberry, 53, will earn a second term without an additional election as no non-Republican candidates filed.
Dr. Josh Turley won the Republican nomination for Tulsa County Commissioner District No. 2 against Eddy Barclay with 58.04% of the vote. Turley, 47, works for the Tulsa County Sheriffs Office and will take on Democratic incumbent Karen Keith in November.
Other Results:
State Senate District No. 1 - Republican: Michael Bergstrom 4980 (64.68%), James Fuser 2720 (35.32%).
State Senate District No. 3 - Republican: Blake Cowboy Stephens 4410 (60.43%), Wayne Shaw 2888 (39.57%).
State Senate District No. 5 - Republican: George H. Burns 2343 (38.28%), Justin Jackson 2071 (33.84%), Jimmy Westbrook 1706 (27.88%).
State Senate District No. 5 - Democrat: Randy Coleman 3893 (76.6%), Bevon Rogers 1189 (23.4%).
State Senate District No. 7 - Republican: Larry Boggs 3348 (46.42%), Warren Hamilton 3045 (42.22%), Kevin Woody 819 (11.36%).
State Senate District No. 7 - Democrat: Jerry L. Donathan 5125 (64.73%), Cathy Zukosky Thornton 2792 (35.27%).
State Senate District No. 13 - Republican: Greg McCortney 5146 (74.5%), Carisa Roberson 1761 (25.5%).
State Senate District No. 15 - Democrat: Alex Scott 5070 (61.71%), Matt Hecox 3218 (38.83%).
State Senate District No. 17 - Republican: Shane David Jett 4577 (44.18%), Ron Sharp 3453 (33.33%), Brandon Baumgarten 2331 (22.5%).
State Senate District No. 19 - Republican: Roland Pederson 6680 (54.44%), David M. Mason 5591 (45.56%).
State Senate District No. 28 - Republican: Zack Taylor 5679 (59.32%), Mike Haines 3197 (33.39%), Christian Ford 698 (7.29%).
State Senate District No. 35 - Republican: Kyden Creekpaum 3348 (43.8%), Cheryl Baber 2600 (34.02%), Linda Morrissey 1695 (22.18%).
State Senate District No. 35 - Democrat: Jo Anna Dossett 4981 (57.2%), Carly Hotvedt 2688 (30.87%), Stan Allen Young 1039 (11.93%).
State Senate District No. 43 - Republican: Paul Scott 5683 (49.9%), Jessica Garvin (39.25%), Kaity Keith 1235 (10.84%).
State Representative District No. 1 - Republican: Eddy Dempsey 1784 (60.31%), Eric Ensley 1174 (39.69%).
State Representative District No. 3 - Republican: Rick West 1852 (53.96%), Lundy Kiger 1580 (46.04%).
State Representative District No. 11 - Republican: Wendi Stearman 3096 (55.49%), Derrel Fincher 2483 (44.51%).
State Representative District No. 12 - Republican: Kevin McDugle 2514 (52.94%), Justin Dine 2235 (47.06%).
State Representative District No. 14 - Republican: Chris Sneed 1952 (60.32%), George Faught 1284 (39.68%).
State Representative District No. 15 - Republican: Randy Randleman 2587 (73.27%), Angie Brinlee 944 (26.73%).
State Representative District No. 17 - Republican: Jim Grego 2100 (61.87%), Shannon Rowell 1294 (38.13%).
State Representative District No. 18 - Republican: David Smith 1733 (61.56%), Brenda Angel 659 (23.41%), Brecken Wagner 423 (15.03%).
State Representative District No. 20 - Republican: Sherrie Conley 2748 (56.95%), Steve Herburger 2077 (43.05%).
State Representative District No. 24 - Republican: Logan J. Phillips 1401 (52.89%), John Andy Baca 533 (20.12%), Sam Stampler 418 (15.78%), Elijah Harelson 297 (11.21%).
State Representative District No. 25 - Republican: Ronny Johns 2035 (68.24%), Gary Rhynes 947 (31.76%).
State Representative District No. 28 - Republican: Danny Williams 1845 (54.6%), Jerri Parker 1534 (45.4%).
State Representative District No. 30 - Republican: Mark Lawson 3243 (76.13%), Jake Rowland 686 (16.1%), Kate Stromlund 331 (7.77%).
State Representative District No. 31 - Republican: Garry Mize 4090 (66.78%), Karmin Grider 2035 (33.22%).
State Representative District No. 33 - Republican: John Talley 2455 (53.92%), Brice Nathaniel Chaffin 2098 (46.08%).
State Representative District No. 40 - Republican: Chad Caldwell 2412 (56.62%), Taylor Venus 1848 (43.38%).
State Representative District No. 42 - Republican: Cynthia Cindy Roe 2921 (61.46%), Nicole Stevens 1818 (38.36%).
State Representative District No. 52 - Republican: Gerrid Kendrix 2319 (64.13%), Scot Simco 1297 (35.87%).
State Representative District No. 56 - Republican: Dick Lowe 1803 (53.49%), Randy Talley 1568 (46.51%).
State Representative District No. 59 - Republican: Mike Dobrinski 4376 (71.73%), Adam N. Masters 1725 (28.27%).
State Representative District No. 61 - Republican: Kenton Patzkowsky 2943 (55.77%), Kenny Bob Tapp 2334 (44.23%).
State Representative District No. 62 - Republican: Daniel Pae 1243 (74.61%), Robert Johns 423 (25.39%).
State Representative District No. 69 - Republican: Sheila Dills 3594 (61.8%), Angela Strohm 2222 (38.2%).
State Representative District No. 70 - Republican: Carol M. Bush 3329 (68.08%), Taylor Woodrum 1561 (31.92%).
State Representative District No. 71 - Republican: Mike Masters 1301 (48.87%), Beverly A. Atteberry 1184 (44.48%), David Matthew Hullum 177 (6.65%).
State Representative District No. 72 - Democrat: Monroe Nichols 1653 (68.96%), Maria Veliz Barnes 744 (31.04%).
State Representative District No. 74 - Republican: Mark Vancuren 4009 (85.39%), Brad Peixotto 686 (14.61%).
State Representative District No. 79 - Republican: Clay Iiams 1491 (46.45%), Margie Alfonso 924 (28.79%), Maria Mercedes Seidler 795 (24.77%).
State Representative District No. 83 - Republican: Eric Roberts 3580 (80.32%), Robert McMaster 877 (19.68%).
State Representative District No. 88 - Democrat: Mauree Turner 3036 (52.15%), Jason Dunnington 2786 (47.85%).
State Representative District No. 89 - Democrat: Jose Cruz 699 (74.36%), Chris Bryant 123 (13.09%), Cristian Zapata 118 (12.55).
State Representative District No. 91 - Republican: Chris Kannady 3802 (79.61%), Bruce Fleming 974 (20.39%).
State Representative District No. 94 - Republican: Lauren Rodebush 1201 (58.27%), Franklin Paul Cromack 860 (41.73%).
State Representative District No. 95 - Republican: Max Wolfley 1370 (56.96%), Daren Ward 1035 (43.04%).
State Representative District No. 96 - Republican: Preston Stinson 2343 (35.44%), Margaret Best 2057 (31.11%), Ken Warner 1843 (27.88%), Chris DeCloud 368 (5.57%).
State Representative District No. 99 - Democrat: Ajay Pittman 2833 (51.95%), Susan Porter 2620 (48.05%).
State Representative District No. 100 - Republican: Marlyn Stark 2363 (59.1%), Cobi J. Ceron 1635 (40.9%).
Candidates are reminded that it is illegal to place signs inside state rights-of-way, which includes the area along highways or on bridges. In this photo from 2018, ODOT maintenance workers pause mowing operations to remove a large campaign sign from along the highway.
As the 2020 election season shifts into high gear approaching the summer, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation is reminding political candidates and volunteers to not jeopardize safety and to do their part in saving taxpayer money and keeping Oklahoma’s highways and interstates free of unsightly litter.
Placing yard signs to help promote candidates may be a long-standing tradition in Oklahoma politics, but the areas along highways or on bridges are off-limits. State law actually prohibits such signs from being placed in state rights-of-way due to safety concerns. In addition to potentially blocking drivers’ views at intersections or ramps, illegal sign placement endangers volunteers who try to post them along high-speed roadways or on bridges. Generally, the public right-of-way includes the area of grass between a highway and the nearest fence.
The best strategy for safe and legal politicking is for candidates to place signs on private property with the landowner’s permission. Inside city limits, candidates should check local ordinances for questions regarding municipal streets and rights-of-way. However, even within city limits, signs are prohibited on state-maintained highways, overpasses and bridges.
When signs are illegally placed, ODOT crews spend time away from other highway maintenance operations to pull them out of the ground, which can be time-consuming and hazardous. Removal of litter, including illegal signs, also delays highway mowing since the signs and posts could potentially damage state equipment.
Each year, nearly $6 million is spent by the department to pick up trash along Oklahoma highways, including illegally placed signs. This money comes out of ODOT’s maintenance budget, the same source of funds for patching potholes, repairing guardrail, mowing and clearing snow and ice. This expense is in addition to the untold amounts of time and money volunteer groups and local governments spend removing litter.
(Oklahoma City) – Voters have until 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, to request a mail absentee ballot for the June 30 Primary Election, State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax said today.
Voters can apply for absentee ballots online using the OK Voter Portal at https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html. Applications can also be downloaded from the State Election Board Website at https://www.ok.gov/elections/Voter_Info/Absentee_Voting/index.html and mailed to the voter’s County Election Board. A directory of County Election Boards is available at https://www.ok.gov/elections/About_Us/County_Election_Boards/index.html.
Voted absentee ballots must be received by the county election boards no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, June 30.
In-person absentee voting, or “early voting,” begins Thursday, June 25. “Early voting” will be available at all 77 county election boards across the state and at additional locations in some counties. A list of additional “early voting” sites is available on the State Election Board website at elections.ok.gov. Early voting will be available Thursday, June 25 and Friday, June 26 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, June 27 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Primary Election allows voters to select nominees for various federal, state, and county offices for November’s General Election. In primary races with more than two candidates where no one receives a majority of the votes, runoffs will be held August 25.
Also on the ballot is State Question 802 (SQ 802), which would expand Medicaid coverage for some Oklahomans. You will find ballot language for SQ 802 at https://www.ok.gov/elections/Election_Info/State_Question_info.html. Additionally, many elections postponed from April due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be on the ballot, as well.
Oklahoma has closed primaries; however, recognized parties may open up their primaries to Independent voters by notifying the Secretary of the State Election Board. For the 2020 and 2021 election years, the Democratic Party has elected to open its primaries to Independents. The Republican and Libertarian parties have chosen to keep their primaries closed.
Voters can view a sample ballot or track their absentee ballot using the OK Voter Portal at https://www.ok.gov/elections/OVP.html.
OKLAHOMA CITY (June 12, 2020) – Gov. Kevin Stitt and State Supt. of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister announced today they have partnered to give eligible Oklahoma school districts an opportunity to apply for $16 million in emergency relief funds through the federal Coronavirus, Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Incentive grant funds were made available through $8 million from the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) set-aside amount from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund and $8 million from the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) discretionary funds. Under the CARES Act, the OSDE funds must meet “emergency needs” of districts in response to COVID-19, while GEER funds must be expended to schools “most significantly impacted by coronavirus.”
Hofmeister said the partnership will help educators bridge the “digital divide” and strengthen distance learning in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we plan for a new school year after the major disruptions we experienced this past spring, we must do all we can to ensure districts can provide digital instructional delivery and social-emotional supports to every student when needed. This is no easy task as districts grapple with budget shortfalls and various unknowns stemming from the pandemic. School leaders are rising to the challenge, however, and these incentive grants will go a long way toward helping fuel their heroic efforts.”
Use of GEER funds to provide additional connectivity for schools is critical, according to the Governor.
“I welcome this partnership with Superintendent Hofmeister and OSDE to maximize the impact of our federal dollars on students,” said Gov. Stitt. “Digital transformation has been one of my priorities since I took office and we are working on more projects to help ensure technology is an enhancement to learning rather than a barrier.”
In order to apply, districts must have opted in on their ESSER formula funds application and commit to spending at least 30% of those funds in at least two of five priority areas:
Expanding connectivity for students to enable distance learning accentuating digital transformation (i.e., purchasing devices, hotspots, access points, partnership agreements, etc.)
Purchasing a Content Management System (CMS) or Learning Management System (LMS) – either a new system or services added to an existing system to support students in distance learning
Providing mental health supports through social and emotional learning tools for students experiencing trauma due to COVID-19
Providing compensatory services to students identified to be at risk as a result of the closure of school buildings in spring 2020 (i.e., English learners, students with disabilities, students needing credit recovery, etc.)
Providing training in the science of reading for teachers in Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, with a specific focus on delivering instruction remotely (i.e., contract with a vendor for professional development, use of programs identified through What Works Clearinghouse, purchase of curriculum or materials to be used in teacher training)
Grants will be awarded in amounts based on student enrollment on Oct. 1, 2019:
Up to 500 students: Eligible for up to $50,000
501 to 1,000 students: Eligible for up to $100,000
1,001 to 2,500 students: Eligible for up to $200,000
2,501 to 7,499 students: Eligible for up to $300,000
7,500+ students: Eligible for up to $500,000
Districts will apply for Incentive Grants through the OSDE Grants Management System, and eligible expenditures must be reimbursed between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2022.
For more information on CARES Act-funded Incentive Grants, click here.
Sandite Pride News, LLC is a locally owned and operated Sand Springs, Oklahoma news source, serving the community since 2014.
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Sandite Pride is the only locally owned and operated news source for Sand Springs, Oklahoma. Sandite Pride News was founded in 2014 by Scott Emigh. The site is primarily focused on Sandite sports, Sand Springs city development, events, and community news.
