Surviving COVID-19 in Sand Springs

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Stephanie and Jim Schrepel.

On March 7th there was only one official, confirmed case of the COVID-19 pandemic in Oklahoma, and less than 1,000 cases in the country. The virus that has now infected over 1.5 million Americans was still just a distant rumor for most Oklahomans, and the nationwide shutdown of restaurants, stores, schools, churches, and parks was something few saw coming.

That was the day Stephanie Schrepel began to get a sore throat. She had recently returned to Sand Springs from a family trip to Disney World, with layovers in Atlanta and Houston, making it hard to say where exactly she was exposed. Fortunately, she was the only member of her family to contract the virus, and her husband, Jim, left on another trip before she could potentially infect him.

“Jim was scheduled to fly out to California to help take care of my parents,” says Stephanie. Her mom had recently undergone surgery, and Jim volunteered to help take care of his in-laws while Stephanie’s sister was on vacation.

While Jim was spending over a week and a half in California, his wife was back home, going about her usual business with nothing more than a scratchy throat and some mild exhaustion, which she assumed were caused by allergies and jetlag. She attended her Monday night Bible study at her son’s house, but midway through the meeting, she began to feel feverish and left.

“I get home and I take my temperature and it’s 100.5. Overnight I started getting worse, and the next morning I emailed my primary care physician.” Her doctor called on Wednesday and told her to go to the health department for testing, but the health department didn’t have any tests either.

At the time Stephanie was beginning to become symptomatic, the entire nation was facing a shortage of COVID tests, and they were reserved for people who had traveled overseas, or who had been in recent contact with an international traveler.

By Thursday Stephanie had alerted her pastor that she was sick and had been in physical contact with fellow church members through her Monday night Bible Study group. The church board made the decision to cancel services at Reach Church the following Sunday, weeks before the statewide shutdown was mandated by the Governor.

Finally, four days after the onset of her fever, she was finally approved by the state epidemiologist for a test. “I was literally the poster child for what could go wrong with testing. I went to a drive-through at OSU, they did the test, it went to Saint Francis, and it sat over the weekend and wasn’t prepped the way it should have been.”

After the test was improperly processed, the specimen was no longer valid and Stephanie had to be retested a full week after first becoming feverish. It was another ten days before the results came back and confirmed she had the virus.

On March 7th, when Stephanie began to feel symptomatic, there were 946 cases in the country. By the 28th, when she was officially diagnosed, there were 14,855 in the country and 377 in Oklahoma.

The 28th was also the first day Stephanie was fever-free. By that time, Jim had returned from California, and he was put up in the Hampton Inn for eight days to avoid being exposed. They celebrated their 41st anniversary with her inside and him on the porch.

The fever was one thing, but Stephanie also suffered a sinus infection and pneumonia as a result of the virus. She never got sick enough to require a ventilator, and because of her medical background she was able to check her oxygen levels and heart rate at home.

Stephanie is the Director of Respiratory Therapy at Cleveland Area Hospital, where she is now helping her fellow COVID survivors to regain proper lung function. Stephanie herself is still struggling with shortness of breath from walking more than short distances. “We’ve had patients who have been in a hospital bed anywhere from two to three weeks. We get them to a place where they can go home and function independently.”

“I was probably one of the few that should’ve gone to the hospital that didn’t. I just feel like God protected me. Some of it was not my own common sense. I probably should’ve gone ahead and called an ambulance, but in my mind I was thinking ‘I’d have to turn off the alarm, I’d have to go open the front door,’ and I was having a hard time just walking ten feet to the bathroom.”

The Schrepels will have an opportunity to thank God for that protection this Friday at 7:00 p.m. when they host the fourth annual Unity Praise event at Case Community Park. Together, the couple runs In Jesus Name Ministries International, which puts together the non-denominational worship gathering every year.

The event will feature live music from Roger Rister, Darin Shipley, and Eddie Preas, with preaching from Jim Schrepel and Negiel Bigpond. “Whether you’re Charismatic, Free Will Baptist, Church of Christ, the main focus is that we need Jesus,” says Stephanie.

The event will be held on the two-acre Great Lawn at Case Park, which should provide plenty of room for attendees to social distance and maintain their safety while celebrating the aspects of their faith that transcend denominational differences.

Case Community Park is located at 2500 South River City Park Road in Sand Springs.

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The inaugural Unity Praise event was held in 2017 at CPHS Memorial Stadium.

Governor signs Oil and Gas Produced Water and Waste Recycling and Reuse Act into law

(*Editor’s Note: District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman and District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan both voted in favor of the measure).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation designating who owns and is responsible for wastewater resulting from oil and natural gas drilling operations was signed into law on Tuesday by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

Authored by Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, Senate Bill 1875, also known as the Oil and Gas Produced Water and Waste Recycling Reuse Act, clarifies that produced water and waste is the property of the oil and gas producer until it is officially transferred to another person. It also shields liability from those who process wastewater into recycled water and/or transport this recycled water for further use in oil and gas production. 

By clarifying ownership and liability, the measure aims to attract entrepreneurs to innovate and invest in technology to process and treat oil and gas produced water and waste, resulting in a beneficial resource and a reduction in wastewater injection, Rader explained.

“This law is the result of unprecedented negotiations between oil, gas, agricultural and landowner stakeholders across the state,” Rader said. “We’ve all seen negative impacts of underground wastewater injection. It’s in the state’s best interest to cultivate, encourage and promote developments that allow for the economical treatment of wastewater so it can become a useful resource in the future. By clarifying ownership and liability, this law could help protect existing freshwater resources and groundwater from potential pollution.”

House author Rep. Terry O’Donnell, R-Catoosa, said the bill helps clarify an issue that until now was ambiguous in state statute.

“Such clarity will give Oklahoma a competitive edge in attracting entrepreneurs looking to turn wastewater into a reusable resource,” O’Donnell said. “This helps us create a stronger business environment as we continue to seek ways to diversify our state’s economy.”

Numerous groups came together to support this legislation, including the Oklahoma Secretary of Energy and Environment; Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality; Oklahoma Farm Bureau; The Petroleum Alliance; Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association; State Chamber of Commerce; Environmental Federation of Oklahoma; Coalition of Surface Owners and Mineral Owners; and Lagoon Water Midstream.

Oklahoma to honor out-of-state teaching certificates under new law

(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman both voted in favor of the bill).

OKLAHOMA CITY – This week, the State Board of Education must begin authorizing out-of-state teaching certificates after Senate Bill 1125 was signed into law Monday.  The bill, by Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, will help increase the number of teachers in the state by recognizing valid out-of-state teaching certificates, with no other requirements except a criminal history record check. 

“This is an exciting opportunity for Oklahoma to help get more certified teachers in the classroom this fall and help shrink classroom sizes,” Pugh said.  “Before we were requiring out-of-state teachers to jump through too many hoops to teach in our state. Under this new law, they won’t have to get recertified, take competency exams or any of the other unnecessary requirements that were keeping them from returning to the classroom.  Instead, Oklahoma will honor and respect their knowledge and expertise welcoming them with open arms.”

Pugh said he filed SB 1125 to follow his 2019 SB 670, which provided reciprocal licensing for military personnel and their spouses. Teacher licensing is under its own title of law requiring a separate bill.

Under SB 1125, the teaching certificate issued by the State Board of Education will only be for those subject areas and grade levels most closely aligned to those recognized on the out-of-state teaching certificate.  New teachers will be required to take competency exams for any other subjects or grade levels they decide to teach. Qualifying out-of-state teachers must have both a current Oklahoma and national criminal history record check on file. 

House Speaker Charles McCall is the House principal author of the measure.

Gov. Stitt signs two measures protecting rights of nursing mothers

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(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman both voted in favor of both bills).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Kevin Stitt signed two bills Tuesday to protect state employees who are nursing.  Sen. Kim David, R-Porter, authored the measures to ensure mothers are allowed daily break time and privacy to breastfeed or express milk. 

“There is nothing more beneficial to a baby’s health than to be nursed.  We want to support moms who choose this healthy option,” David said.  “It’s something that needs to be done throughout the day to protect the milk supply and ensure the mother’s comfort. These changes will help support nursing moms and hopefully encourage more to consider this nutritious option for their kids.”

SB 285 requires state agencies to allow lactating employees reasonable paid break time to use a designated lactation room.

SB 1877 requires all buildings owned or leased by the state where state employees work to have a place other than a bathroom for breast feeding or to express breast milk. 

“Lactation rooms can already be found in federal buildings for their employees. Oklahoma state employees deserve the same,” David said. “I’m proud of Oklahoma for supporting nursing mothers and ensuring Oklahoma’s children get off to a healthy start.”

Currently, federal law requires that all federally owned or leased buildings have a lactation room.  The Affordable Care Act (ACA) amended the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 to require employers to provide reasonable break times for employees to express breast milk for the first year of the child’s life.

Rep. Carol Bush, R-Tulsa, is the principal House author of both bills, which will become law November 1, 2020. 

“Nursing mothers returning to work deserve consideration of their needs and privacy where they can lactate,” said Bush. “These bills ensure that state employees will have a designated room for lactation and appropriate break time allotted for them to take care of this need.”

Nonconsensual selling of intimate images/video to become felony

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Kim David is the author of legislation to protect victims from their intimate images and videos being sold by former partners without their knowledge or consent. Such actions will become a felony under Senate Bill 1462, which the Porter Republican filed after learning of a constituent’s struggles to protect her image and reputation from someone she trusted at one point, who is now her ex-spouse. 

“Anyone with a moral compass would never think to stoop so low, but unfortunately we have some sick individuals in our society. They thrive off humiliating their current or former partners any way they can, and when they get paid to do it, it’s even more enticing,” David said. “My constituent’s ex-husband sold private videos of her to over 150 adult websites profiting from her humiliation and nearly costing her her job in the military. Even after having numerous misdemeanor charges brought against him, he continues selling the videos. This is disgusting, and we need to protect people from having their private moments used against them during or after a relationship.”

Under SB 1462, attempting to gain financial advantage or gain anything of value as a result of the nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images will become a felony. First time offenders will face up to four years in prison while repeat offenders will face up to ten years imprisonment and be required to register as a sex offender. The bill remove’s the state’s discretion to file a misdemeanor charge on anyone who commits the offense. Provisions of the Sex Offenders Registration Act will not apply to anyone while incarcerated in a medium or maximum security prison. 

Rep. Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City, is the principal House author of the bill that will go into effect November 1, 2020.

Legislation to address workplace violence in hospitals/health care facilities signed into law

(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan voted in favor of the bill, which passed the House 74-26. District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted against the bill, which passed the Senate 43-4).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation strengthening laws dealing with violence against people who work in hospitals and health care facilities has been signed into law.  Senate Bill 1290, the Medical Care Provider Protection Act, by Sen. Darrell Weaver, R-Moore, and Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsay, was approved by the governor on Tuesday.

Weaver said despite a lifelong career in law enforcement, he was shocked to learn how often health care workers are the victims of workplace violence.  He thanked the governor and fellow members for approving legislation aimed at keeping them safer, especially now.

“Our health care workers and other employees in these facilities are on the frontline during this pandemic.  I think the current situation just highlights how important it is to do all we can to ensure their safety while on the job” Weaver said.  “In Oklahoma City hospitals alone, between five and 10 assaults are reported every day, but it’s a problem that impacts health care workers throughout the state.  I’m grateful for the governor and the members of both chambers for their support of this legislation.”

Provisions included in SB 1290 would:

• Raise awareness through uniformed signage in medical settings, which will read:  WARNING:  ASSAULTING A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WHO IS ENGAGED IN THE PERFORMANCE OF HIS OR HER OFFICIAL DUTIES IS A SERIOUS CRIME.

• Require the annual reporting of all assaults on health care workers to the State Health Department. The data would be nonidentifiable.

• Create an inclusive listing of specific health care workers that the bill covers.

• Increase the penalty for aggravated assault and battery on a medical care provider from the current range of up to one year to a minimum of two years and a maximum of five.

Roe has 37 years of health care experience and is currently a nurse practitioner in Pauls Valley, where she has worked on the front lines during the state’s COVID-19 response.

“In my career as a nurse and nurse practitioner, I have seen and experienced firsthand the violence that often faces our health care workers,” Roe said. “Violent behavior from patients or visitors is a problem far too many medical professionals have been a victim of, and it unfortunately has caused many talented health care workers to pursue other careers. An estimated 75% of all workplace violence occurs in health care. I’m hopeful that the actions taken by the Legislature through this bill will cut down on this violent behavior and help keep our medical professionals safe.”

Sand Springs City Councilman Mike Burdge makes 200th blood donation

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Sand Springs, OK - When Mike Burdge learned back in 1970 that he could earn a little extra time off during his tour of duty with the U.S. Army in Vietnam by making a blood donation- he did not flinch. The young soldier scrambled at the chance to give blood and enjoy a little more time away from the war. It has taken years since then for Burdge, now a former Mayor and current City Council member with the City of Sand Springs to realize the immense value of his blood donations made back then, and those he has given for more than fifty years.

Five decades later Burdge recently reached a milestone by making his 202nd blood donation with the Oklahoma Blood Institute. Like the cavalry, Burdge’s steadfast commitment to donate blood platelets and plasma has come to the rescue for agencies like the Oklahoma Blood Institute, who are in dire need of the “gift of life” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a result of social distancing and concerns over large gatherings, blood drives have been suspended and only a small number of people can participate at one time at the Oklahoma Blood Institute’s facility in Tulsa while making a donation. The pandemic has put real pressure on the need for donations of blood to save lives in Oklahoma.

Somewhere along the way Burdge shifted his war strategy on blood donations too. These days he focuses his mission on donating the more precious platelets and plasma, which take much longer (2 ½ to 4 hours) to give than the more common unit of 2 blood donation. He has come to understand that his donations are critical for people making their way (for example) through cancer treatments and much more, and that the call for blood will never go away.

“I realized the impact of saving lives through donating blood was much more powerful than many of my efforts to save lives during my time in Vietnam,” said Burdge who plans to continue his war on blood supply.

For the Oklahoma Blood Institute, they are grateful that many Oklahomans have answered the call, and invite anyone who can help the cause to consider following in Burdge’s mission. For more information about giving blood or if you have questions about how blood products are used daily to save lives visit www.obi.org or call them at 1-888-584-7557.

Shepherd’s Law, providing for licensure of midwives, becomes law

(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman, representing Sand Springs, both voted yes on the bill).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation creating a system for licensing midwives has been signed into law.  Senate Bill 1823, creating Shepherd’s Law, was signed into law Monday by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

State Sen. Brenda Stanley, a former educator, is principal author of SB 1823, also known as Shepherd’s Law, named for the baby of a former student--the infant died a day after a planned home delivery that went wrong.  Stanley, R-Midwest City, expressed her thanks to supporters inside and outside the Capitol for helping move the bill all the way through the process.  Stanley noted that Certified Professional Midwives are already regulated in 34 other states.  She said getting SB 1823 signed into law is an important step for Oklahoma.

“Shepherd’s Law provides for licensure, oversight, accountability, informed consent, and preserves parental choice about who they want to use, whether it’s an obstetrician, a lay-midwife, or a licensed, certified midwife,” Stanley said.  “Ultimately, I believe this bill will help us better protect the health and safety of mothers and babies.”

Under SB 1823, a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or Certified Midwife (CM) would be required to be licensed in Oklahoma.  All midwives would be required to disclose what credentials or licensure they may or may not have, their limitation of skills and whether they carry malpractice insurance.  A required informed consent document would also include information on the midwife’s plan for emergencies and complications and gives parents the ability to pre-select a hospital in case of an emergency.

Licensed midwives would also be required to advise clients to seek medical care for pregnancies outside their scope of practice and to call for emergency assistance in situations that fall outside their scope of practice.  The $1,000 license would be good for three years.

The legislation also places oversight of the midwifery profession under the State Commissioner of Health and creates an Advisory Committee on Midwifery to assist the commissioner in matters pertaining to licensure, discipline and related issues.  Rulemaking authority of the commissioner includes scope of practice, a formulary of prescription drugs for licensed midwives to administer, routine tests, and continuing education. The Health Department would also maintain a roster of licensed midwives.

The measure was supported by the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives, Oklahoma Chapter.

The House principal author of SB 1823 is Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsey.  She said the new law will take effect on November 1, 2020.

“This law will give prospective Oklahoma mothers the ability to determine the credentials and skills a midwife has before making a decision about who they want to entrust with their life and that of their baby,” Roe said. 

Unemployed Oklahomans rally at State Capitol to protest problems with unemployment system

OKLAHOMA CITY – Unemployed Oklahomans who are self-employed rallied at the state Capitol Monday wanting answers to why their claims have not been fulfilled after weeks of waiting. State Senator Mary Boren has been working tirelessly trying to get answers as many unemployed Oklahomans are facing eviction and other financial troubles.

“Being that the state has already received its federal unemployment funds, I don’t understand why these citizens aren’t getting their benefits,” Boren said. “It’s beyond frustrating that our citizens, through no fault of their own had to close their businesses because of the health crisis yet haven’t received the unemployment benefits they were promised.  Something must be done immediately so these people don’t lose their homes, cars, or have to close their businesses permanently and experience complete financial ruin.”

Boren said her office has been inundated with calls and emails of Oklahomans who have not received any unemployment benefits, cannot get through to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) to get an update on their case, or if they do get through are told someone will get back to them but never does.

Three types of unemployment are currently available to self-employed Oklahomans, gig workers, independent contractors and those who have exhausted their regular unemployment benefits.

1. Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) is available to those who do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits. PUA benefits became available at the end of April.

2. Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Assistance (PEUA) will begin this week and will provide an additional 13 weeks of benefits (through the week ending Dec. 26, 2020) to those who have exhausted regular unemployment insurance benefits.

3. Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) provides an additional $600 per week to all eligible Unemployment Insurance (UI) claimants through the week ending July 25, 2020.

The Norman senator cited a survey from the Oklahoma Self-Employed Professionals, a group of private citizens who have received no PUA assistance and are demanding accountability from the OESC, the governor and other state leaders. The survey included responses from more than 300 Oklahomans.

Nearly half of respondents said they have received no confirmation that their claim has been approved or denied. Nearly 60% of those surveyed said they have been disconnected at least twice when calling in to check on the status of their claim. Only 14% of those approved for PUA have been able to file their weekly claims.

The survey found that when people did get through they experienced long wait times.  Over 28% said they waited 30 minutes to an hour, nearly 16% waited 1-2 hours, and nearly 24% waited over 2 hours to talk to an OESC employee about their claim.

Of those surveyed, 88% said when their call was answered there was no Tier 1 Specialist available to help them. Nearly 46% said when they talked to a Tier 1 Specialist, they were provided incorrect information.

When speaking to a Tier 1 Specialist, 69% were told their case was "high priority" or "critical" and that they were at the top of the list for a Tier 2 agent to return their call. Nearly 85% of these individuals are still waiting to be contacted by a Tier 2 agent. Less than 3% of those who have talked to a Tier 2 agent said they were able to address their issue successfully.

“This is a just a small reflection of what is happening to Oklahomans all over the state.  I urge Gov. Stitt to hold OESC accountable and get these hardworking Oklahomans the benefits they have earned and deserve before their lives are destroyed.  This isn’t a game.  These are people’s lives and they need relief immediately,” Boren said.

According to OESC, the state has received just over $1.21 billion in federal funds for PUA, PEUC and FPUC.

Attorney General Hunter Applauds House and Senate Members for Legislation Creating Opioid Abatement Board

(*Editor’s Note: Both District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted in favor of the bill).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Mike Hunter today commended members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and the Senate, who voted to create the Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board.

The board will be responsible for distributing around $25 million from settlements the attorney general reached with opioid manufacturers to eligible cities and counties. The members will develop and implement procedures for the disbursement of the funds to abate the epidemic statewide.

Attorney General Hunter said the board will promote and protect the health of Oklahomans by using the money to comprehensively abate the crisis in collaboration with communities across the state.

“I appreciate the members of the Legislature for their action on this legislation that will get money to communities devastated by the opioid crisis,” Attorney General Hunter said. “Many have been negatively affected by the epidemic. Whether it’s a family member, friend, loved one or neighbor, the disease of addiction does not discriminate. I look forward to working with the members of the board to help our fellow Oklahomans recover.”

Criteria on cities and counties eligibility is listed in the bill. To access the bill, click here: https://bit.ly/2TpD8g7. 

“The board will lay the foundation that will assist communities hardest hit by the opioid epidemic,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat. “We look forward to the governor signing this bill so we can make our appointments and allow the members to begin the important work abating this problem that has claimed too many lives. I appreciate my colleagues in both chambers for prioritizing the health of Oklahomans by making this piece of legislation a priority.”

The nine member board will consist of the attorney general, or his designee, and an appointee from each of the following: the governor, the state auditor, the state treasurer and the superintendent of public instruction. The speaker of the House of Representatives and Senate pro tem will have two appointees each. The attorney general will only vote in case of a tie.

“The opioid epidemic has devastated families and communities throughout our state,” said House Speaker Charles McCall. "The negative statistics are overwhelming. That is why I was heartened to see such broad support for this legislation. The board’s work will reverse these trends through evidence based opioid use prevention strategies and bring about a brighter future for the next generation of Oklahomans.”

The legislation has been sent to the governor for his signature.

Senate Democrats applaud passage of COLA for retirees

(Editor’s Note: Both District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted yes on the measure).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democrats applauded passage of House Bill 3350, providing a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for retired public employees.  The full Senate approved the bill on Friday.

Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd said her caucus had long fought for a cost-of-living adjustment for public retirees, including firefighters, police, state employees, and teachers.

Sen. Kevin Matthews, Democratic Caucus Chair, noted it had been over a decade since retired public employees received a COLA.

“What the Senate did today was long overdue,” said Matthews, D-Tulsa, a former professional firefighter. “First responders like firefighters and police officers put their lives on the line in order to protect public safety. The least we can do is allow them to retire with dignity and security.”

Sen. Carri Hicks, a former classroom teacher, said passage of the COLA would benefit thousands of retired educators.

“I’m thankful the Senate took much needed action today to provide a cost-of-living adjustment for our retired teachers,” said Hicks, D-Oklahoma City. “As a second generation Oklahoma public school teacher, I know first-hand the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to educating Oklahoma children. My father worked tirelessly in the classroom for 32 years like so many other proud Oklahoma educators. When teachers retire, they shouldn’t have to struggle to make ends meet.”

Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, called passage of the measure an important first step.

“Senate Democrats have prioritized passage of a COLA in our legislative agenda every session for several years,” Floyd said.  “We will continue advocating on behalf of retired public employees, as well as for state investment in core public services such as education, public safety, and health care.”

HB 3350 now goes to the Governor for his consideration.

Sen. Standridge issues statement on final passage of SB 1046; measure supports launch of SoonerCare 2.0 in July

(*Editor’s note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan voted in favor of the bill, while District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted nay.)

OKLAHOMA CITY – State Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, applauded House passage of Senate Bill 1046 on Friday, just two days after the Senate approved the measure as a part of the launch of SoonerCare 2.0 on July 1.  The measure has now been sent to the governor and awaits his signature.

The state’s current Medicaid Program, SoonerCare, currently only covers children, pregnant women, adults with children, elderly adults, and disabled adults.  Beginning July 1, 2020, Oklahoma’s Medicaid program will offer coverage availability to include many low-income adults between the ages of 19 and 64.  In addition to the expansion, the state has requested a federal waiver for the state’s SoonerCare 2.0 program to allow the state more flexibility in how it administers the plan.

Standridge, a pharmacist, issued the following statement on Friday:

“Being a health care professional and having spoken out against the many efforts in the Capitol to sell off our Medicaid system to the highest out-of-state bidder, I was very proud to vote for and champion the passage of Senate Bill 1046.  I’m proud to stand with Governor Stitt in launching SoonerCare 2.0.  This will provide health care to our needy in a responsible way that provides citizens with a pathway to independence.

“Utilizing the new Trump administration’s innovative Healthy Adult Opportunity initiative, the state can have flexibility under SoonerCare 2.0 to provide care in a way the State of Oklahoma and our citizens see best. I have always called for an Oklahoma First philosophy at the state Capitol, and SoonerCare 2.0 is not only Oklahoma First all the way, but it also will place Oklahoma as one of the first states in the nation to take advantage of President Trump’s state sovereignty-minded Healthy Adult Opportunity program.”

Senate approves Sgt. Schoolfield Line of Duty Disability Act

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate unanimously approved legislation Friday to ensure police officers seriously injured in the line of duty can get full disability benefits.  House Bill 3330, by Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, creates the Sergeant Schoolfield Line of Duty Disability Act named after Matthew Schoolfield, a 10-year veteran of the Chickasha Police Department, who was shot three times in the line of duty on Sept. 17, 2017 while serving a search warrant.

“While doing his job, Matthew sustained severe injuries, especially to his right arm, in a violent attack that resulted in him not being able to continue working as a police officer,” Paxton said. “However, because of how disability benefits are figured within the Police Retirement System, he can’t get full disability, which would still only get him less than half his regular pay. With no regard for his personal safety, he put his life at risk every day like so many other heroes around our state. These officers deserve better, and this bill will ensure that they can get full disability when they sustain such life-altering injuries.”

The measure modifies disability pension standards for members of the Oklahoma Police Pension and Retirement System (OPPRS) by requiring the Board of Trustees for OPPRS to determine if a police officer who sustains an injury through a violent act, while in the performance of their duties as a police officer, is 100% disabled and entitled to a 100% normal disability benefit.

Rep. David Perryman, D-Chickasha, is the principal House author of the bill, which now moves to the governor for final consideration. 

Sand Springs hits zero active cases of COVID-19 after 34 recoveries

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The number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 5,398 overall with 288 deaths and 4,008 recoveries, leaving 1,102 active cases statewide. The city of Sand Springs now has zero active confirmed cases. There have been 36 total cases with 34 recoveries and two deaths. Case totals only count confirmed diagnoses, and do not account for individuals who are asymptomatic.

In the city of Tulsa, there are 548 total cases with 23 deaths and 445 recoveries, leaving 80 active cases. In Tulsa County there are 787 cases, 37 deaths, and 650 recoveries, leaving 100 active cases.

885 Oklahomans have been hospitalized since the beginning of the pandemic, and 180 individuals are currently hospitalized. No deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours.

On Sunday, the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) reported 78 new positive COVID cases, for a total of 5,310 positives, and today the agency is reporting 88 new positive COVID-19 cases for a total of 5,398 positives.

Of today’s new positive cases, 64% were in Texas County, where the agency is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), businesses and the community on a robust testing and tracing strategy to contain and minimize further spread of COVID-19 throughout this region.

The OSDH, CDC, Texas County Health Department (TCHD) and Seaboard Foods have teamed up to increase understanding of COVID-19 spread in the community. The team is working to determine the impact of the novel coronavirus on the population and find solutions to reduce the level of COVID-19 throughout Guymon, the county and surrounding areas.

Since March, OSDH and TCHD proactively collaborated with Seaboard Foods, the largest employer in the area, to develop and implement quarantine and isolation guidelines and contact tracing for all individuals with positive results in Texas County. OSDH also deployed at the company’s request broader testing at Seaboard Foods’ plant operations while providing guidance to Seaboard Foods in implementing the CDC’s guidelines for sanitation and preparation for safely returning to operations.

For several weeks, TCHD has offered COVID-19 drive-thru testing centers at strategic locations in Texas County. Additional testing supplies were provided to local hospitals and medical providers to support testing in the general public, with or without symptoms of COVID-19.

“Our goal is to provide expanded COVID-19 testing while supporting contact tracing efforts to contain and mitigate the spread in Guymon and surrounding communities,” said Oklahoma State Health Department Regional Director Terri Salisbury. “We appreciate the partnership of Seaboard Foods and its strong focus on the health of plant employees and their families.”

On Sunday, May 10, OSDH sent a team of nurses at the request of the company to support testing efforts for Seaboard plant employees to know their COVID-19 status and help bring peace of mind. Seaboard Foods partnered with Oklahoma State University to produce face shields for employees as an additional form of personal protective equipment.

“We appreciate the collaboration to work with the community to find solutions that will help minimize and reduce the level of the virus,” said Seaboard Foods Senior Director of Communications David Eaheart

Through a partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma and The Caring Foundation, OSDH is deploying Caring Vans providing free COVID-19 testing to underserved communities in Oklahoma City, increasing testing accessibility. COVID-19 testing is open to everyone 16 and older; people do not need to exhibit symptoms to be tested. 

This week, a Caring Van will be at the Latino Community Development Agency (lcdaok.com) Monday through Thursday, May 18-21, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Agency is located at 420 SW 10th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73109. Testing at the Caring Van will be open to everyone 16 and older, and people do not need to be exhibiting symptoms to be tested.

COVID-19 testing sites are open in multiple cities in Oklahoma as a result of a cross-county, city and state health system partnership. Visit this page for updated dates and locations. There have been 117,807 negative tests statewide.

The CDC is reporting 1,480,349 cases nationwide with 89,407 deaths, an increase of 13,284 cases and 698 deaths in the past 24 hours.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is reporting 4,628,903 cases worldwide with 312,009 deaths. There have been 100,078 new cases in the past 24 hours.

The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Russia with 290,678, The United Kingdom with 243,699, Brazil with 233,142, and Spain with 231,350.

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 4,962 with 3,660 recoveries and 284 deaths

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The cumulative number of COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 4,962 with 3,660 recoveries, leaving 1,018 active cases. There have been 284 deaths statewide with 858 cumulative hospitalizations and 217 current hospitalizations. The city of Sand Springs has totaled 36 cases with 33 recoveries and two deaths, leaving one active case.

There have been six additional deaths in Oklahoma, with three occurring in the past 24 hours, and three occurring between May 4th and May 11th.

• Two in Oklahoma County, a male in the 65 and older age group and a female in the 65 and older age group. 

• Two in Cleveland County, both males in the 65 and older age group. 

• One in Comanche County, a male in the 50-64 age group. 

• One in Washington County, a female in the 65 and older age group.  

The state has processed 106,943 negative tests thus far. A complete list of testing sites can be found at this link. One out of every 797 Oklahomans have been been diagnosed with the virus.

“Over the past week, OSDH has deployed several systems of support into Texas County and the surrounding areas to address a heightened presence of COVID-19. The largest employer in the county, Seaboard Foods, has been a good partner with state agencies by allowing OSDH to test all processing plant employees," said Health Commissioner Gary Cox.

"We are also partnering on guidance and solutions to ensure the company continues doing everything possible to protect its workers. Over the next few days, we expect spikes in our reporting of positive cases due to the significant number of tests processed for Texas County, which is reflective of our increased testing efforts.”

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 1,384,930 cases nationwide with 83,947 deaths, an increase of 20,869 cases and 1,701 deaths in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma is 37th in total cases (43rd per capita) and 31st in deaths (32nd per capita).

The World Health Organization is reporting 4,258,666 cases worldwide with 294,190 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Russia with 252,245, The United Kingdom with 229,709, and Spain with 228,691.

Governor Stitt vetoes four bills, including FY 2021 Budget - Legislature overrides vetoes

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Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt vetoed four bills on Wednesday, but was met with a bipartisan override on each measure. Stitt vetoed House Bill 2741, HB 2742, HB 2743, and Senate Bill 1922. The House voted 94-4, 95-5, 97-3, and 79-20, respectively, to override the vetoes. The Senate voted 34-12, 34-11, 44-2, and 35-11, respectively.

Governor Kevin Stitt issued the following statement after vetoing the Oklahoma Legislature’s proposed Fiscal Year 2021 Budget (Senate Bill 1922):

“This budget was created behind closed doors, without meaningful input or consultation from the Executive Branch.

This proposed budget does not reflect the values of Oklahoma or the clear directive voters gave elected officials at the ballot box of living within our means and making hard decisions when times get tough. Instead, Senate Bill 1922 reflects misguided policies that conservative republicans have spent the past decade reversing. It is propped up with one-time funds that will not be available for Fiscal Year 2022.

As Governor, I was elected to manage the Executive Branch, which includes managing expenses and right-sizing agencies. This budget is going to back the state into a financial corner, which leaves us with very few options in FY 2022 – we will either have to raise taxes or implement draconian cuts. As Governor I am here to protect the taxpayer – not harm them.”

According to a statement released from the Governor’s office, “House Bill 2741 and House Bill 2742 would reduce the percentage of revenue appropriated in FY 2021 to the Teachers’ Retirement System, Oklahoma Firefighters’ Pension and Retirement Fund, Police Pension and Retirement System, and Law Enforcement Retirement Fund and increase revenue appropriated to the 1017 Education Fund.”

“We have made great progress shoring up our retirement systems in the last few years, and now is not the time to undo that progress,” said Gov. Stitt. “These bills would take tens of millions of dollars away from teachers, law enforcement officers, and firefighters to fund district costs, and it would bring our funding ratio back down to where it was in 2014. While I understand the importance of a balanced budget, it is fiscally irresponsible to do so at the expense of the solvency of these pension systems. I will not play a part in harming Oklahoma’s dedicated teachers and emergency responders.” 

According to Stitt, “House Bill 2743 would take $180,000,000 away from the Rebuilding Oklahoma Access and Driver Safety (ROADS) Fund. This has the potential to cause significant delays in many of the critical infrastructure projects supported by the ROADS Fund, which would jeopardize the progress made by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s Eight Year Plan.”

“As Governor, my goal is for Oklahoma to become a Top Ten State. This includes becoming Top Ten in infrastructure, specifically in roads and bridges,” continued Gov. Stitt. “House Bill 2743 would force ODOT to unnecessarily take on additional debt through the use of bonds. Because of the State’s dedication to the ODOT plan, we are now up to 13th in bridges and improving our roads. I understand and agree with the use of bonds in limited circumstances. However, I cannot support the use of bonds to plug budget holes.”

Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, released the following statement on behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus after the Legislature voted to override the vetoes.

“Senate Democrats voted against the override of Governor Stitt’s veto of SB 1922, the General Appropriations Bill for Fiscal Year 2021. We disagree with the Governor’s stated justification for the veto, which is that he believes the budget should include more cuts. We remain concerned the budget as passed by the Legislature already includes too many cuts to core services, including education, health care, and public safety. We are unable to support implementing a budget that does not invest in these priorities, which are a critical foundation of Oklahoma’s economy.

“Most Senate Democrats also opposed votes to override the governor’s vetoes of HB 2741 and HB 2742, bills to divert funds from the Teacher’s Retirement System and Fire Fighter and Police pensions. While we agree funding is needed to prevent cuts to education, we do not believe taking funds intended for public pensions is the way to do it. Retired public employees, who dedicated their careers to serving Oklahomans, have gone over a decade without a cost of living increase (COLA). Instead of reverting back to old practices of diverting funds from the retirement systems, the Legislature should pass a COLA for these retirees this session.

“Senate Democrats did support an override of the Governor’s veto of HB 2743, which transfers $180 million from the ROADS Fund to public education. We do not believe this is a sustainable funding source for our public schools; however, we were able to support this override because the funding is backfilled by bonds the Oklahoma Department of Transportation is authorized to issue.”

Representative Jadine Nollan, who represents the district including Sand Springs, made the following statement on social media.

“These vetoes, if sustained, would have led to a $370 million cut to common education in Oklahoma for FY-21. This would have been a 12.05% cut. Late last night, the House of Representatives and Senate overrode all of those vetoes to protect education and our core services. This was not a vote against the Governor, but a vote to bring stability for our state’s citizens. Thank you to the bipartisan group of legislators who voted 94-4, 95-5, 97-3 and 79-20 in favor of overriding these vetos.”

Oklahoma Droneport Project Pilot Program passes the House, headed to governor’s desk

OKLAHOMA CITY –  A measure creating the Oklahoma Droneport Project Pilot Program to further state investment in innovative technologies gained approval from the House of Representatives on Tuesday and now moves to Governor Stitt’s desk for his signature.

Contingent upon availability of funds, Senate Bill 1688 would house the droneport program under the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission and would allow for coordination between the commission, community leaders and economic developers across the state to create jobs in the emerging Unmanned Aerial Systems industry.

“The possibilities for the Droneport Project Pilot Program and the future technologies it could bring to our state are very exciting,” Bergstrom said. “It has the possibility to inject dollars in our local communities, stimulate the economy and create countless jobs for graduates seeking a career in this progressive field.”

Bergstrom noted programs could be created and/or managed by the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), or the White House, and could include:

• Autonomous vehicles and taxi services in cities;

• Drone delivery in limited areas;

• Unmanned ground cargo delivery projects;

• NASA Grand Challenge designation to test electric aircrafts;

• Drone designation programs; and

• Unmanned cargo trucks on closed Oklahoma roads with USDOT

Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, is the House author for the measure.

“The Oklahoma Droneport Project Pilot Program has the potential to position our state as an emerging leader in cutting-edge drone technologies,” McCall said. “The aerospace industry is already one of Oklahoma’s top economic engines, and further investment in the aeronautics industry could truly put our state on the map as a destination for future business and industry in this field.”

Senate approves legislation allowing restaurants, grocery, convenience and liquor stores to continue curbside sales/deliveries of alcohol

OKLAHOMA CITY – The full Senate has given approval to a bill that will enable Oklahomans to continue to take advantage of curbside sales or home deliveries of beer, wine and spirits.  Sen. Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, is principal author of Senate Bill 1928.  The measure was approved Wednesday with bipartisan support.

“As businesses were closed or operating under restricted procedures because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission (ABLE) allowed restaurants, grocery and convenience stores and liquor stores to serve customers through curbside service and delivery.  It’s a convenience people have really appreciated,” Thompson said.  “This legislation will allow businesses to continue to offer that service even after the pandemic.  If someone is at home and would like to have a meal and a bottle of wine available for curbside service or delivered to their home, they’ll be able to do that.”

Under Thompson’s legislation, the delivery or curbside service of beer, wine or spirits would have to be provided by the establishment holding the license—third party companies cannot deliver those products.  Restaurants, grocery and convenience stores can only provide curbside sales or home delivery of beer or wine.  Liquor stores can provide that service for beer, wine and spirits.

Once the House of Representatives approves SB 1928, it will move to the governor for his consideration.

“I thank my fellow members for their support on this legislation,” Thompson said.  “I think this is a major boost for the people of Oklahoma as we continue to modernize our liquor laws.”

College remediation rates down, Hofmeister says

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OKLAHOMA CITY (May 13, 2020) – Fewer Oklahoma students took remedial college courses in the most recent data released by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Cutting college remediation in half is one of the six goals in the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s 8-year strategic plan, Oklahoma Edge. 

Among fall 2018 first-time freshmen, 34.6% enrolled in one or more developmental or remedial courses, down 2.5 points from 2017 and 7.9 points from its high point in 2011-12.  

“It is encouraging to learn we are positively impacting Oklahoma’s remediation rate,” said Joy Hofmeister, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “We must capitalize on every day our students are in school, from pre-kindergarten all the way through their senior year, to build a foundation for success after high school. These results show the difference we can make when we work together to create new solutions and opportunities for kids.” 

Oklahoma families spend an estimated $22 million a year for remedial courses. These are classes taken in college to help students build their skills before taking college-level courses. Students receive no college credit despite paying for the class. 

“Through our ongoing partnership, the State Regents and the State Department of Education continue working collaboratively to strengthen college preparation and best position students for academic success,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “This latest data is reflective of our joint commitment and our progress.” 

Remediation rates in all individual subject areas have improved since 2015, with a 2.7% drop in English, 21.43% drop in math, 27.47% drop in reading and a 71.43% drop in science. This shows a reverse in an alarming trend requiring remedial classes in college,  revealing significant improvement in students' college and career readiness.

One of the main efforts between OSDE and the State Regents to reduce math remediation rates is a high school class, College Career Math Ready. The course, a fourth-year elective, is raising ACT scores for students. Right now, College Career Math Ready is offered at more than 50 schools around the state, and 148 teachers are trained to teach the course. The class has been available for three years. 

“Much of the success of this news comes from the hard work of teachers and students. Reducing the number of college students who need developmental courses is an indication that our efforts are working.” Hofmeister said. “We are excited to forge ahead as we continue to align Oklahoma’s academic standards and instruction to yield strong and positive outcomes.”

Oklahoma COVID-19 cases rise to 4,424 with 3,064 recoveries

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The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oklahoma has risen to 4,424 with 266 deaths and 228 current hospitalizations. 3,064 Oklahomans have recovered, leaving 1,360 active cases. Tulsa County has totaled 684 cases, 493 recoveries, and 36 deaths. Sand Springs has totaled 34 cases with two deaths and 30 recoveries.

Six additional deaths have been linked to COVID-19 in Oklahoma. Two of them occurred in the past 24 hours and the others died between May 2nd and May 6th.

• One in Oklahoma County, a female in the 65 and older age group.

• One in Caddo County, a male in the 50-64 age group. 

• One in Cotton County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

• One in Le Flore County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

• One in Rogers County, a female in the 50-64 age group. 

• One in Washington County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

The Oklahoma State Department of Health has partnered with Blue Cross and Blue Shield to bring Caring Vans to under-served areas for COVID-19 testing. The tests will be available to everyone, regardless of if they are showing symptoms for the virus. OSDH Commissioner Gary Cox has set a goal of testing 90,000 people during the month of May.

Caring Vans will be at the following locations on Friday, May 8, and on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Guiding Right, 1420 NE 23rd St., Okla. City

• Supermercados Morelos, 1 SE 59th St., Okla. City

• Little Flower Catholic Church (across the street from Latino Community Development Agency), 1125 S. Walker Ave., Okla. City

• La 29 Business Association, SW 29th St., Okla. City

“As the state enters the first phase of a measured reopening, testing becomes even more vital to health officials and Oklahomans who use data to make informed decisions to protect health,” said Cox. “We want everyone to get tested, regardless of whether or not they are currently showing symptoms, so we can improve early detection of new clusters and hot spots as they arise and aggressively mitigate spread.”

A full list of COVID-19 testing sites can be found at this link. There have been 84,869 negative tests so far in Oklahoma.

“We are pleased to spotlight the data reflecting Oklahoma’s continued success in flattening the curve,” said Interim State Epidemiologist Aaron Wendelboe. “The more testing we do, the more confidence we have in our data. We are relying on Oklahomans to get tested for COVID-19 now that we have plenty of testing capability.”

There have been 712 confirmed cases in the past week, an increase of 43.3% from the prior week, and 46 deaths, a 4.5% increase. 71 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties have at least one confirmed case.

The Centers for Disease Control are reporting 1,219,066 cases nationwide with 73,297 deaths. Oklahoma is 38th in total cases (45th per capita) and 31st in deaths.

The World Health Organization is reporting 3,767,744 cases worldwide with 259,593 deaths. The United States lead the world, followed by Spain (221,447), Italy (215,858), The United Kingdom (206,719, and Russia (187,859).