Committees

In the House, Terry O’Donnell has led key committees shaping policy and legislation, reviewing bills, conducting hearings, and recommending improvements for a stronger Oklahoma.

Present and Past Committees

Appropriations and Budget

The House and Senate appropriations committees, through their 12 subcommittees, hold hearings to examine the budget requests and needs of state spending programs.
The House and Senate then produce their own appropriations bills to fund the state government.

A and B Select Agencies Subcommittee

The Oklahoma House Committee on Appropriations and Budget consists of ten subcommittees: Education, Finance, General Government, Health, Human Services, Judiciary, Natural Resources, Public Safety, Select Agencies, and Transportation.
Each subcommittee is responsible for overseeing budget matters in its respective area.

Energy and Natural Resources

The Oklahoma Committee on Energy and Natural Resources has 19 members and focuses on legislation related to energy production and the management of natural resources.
The committee reviews laws concerning energy efficiency, renewable energy, and environmental conservation to promote sustainable practices in Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Committee on Utilities oversees the regulation of utility services, focusing on safety, pricing, and infrastructure for electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications.
The ten-member committee shapes state energy policies and addresses emerging challenges in the utility sector

Joint Committee on Appropriations and Budget

The Joint Committee on Appropriations and Budget (JCAB) in Oklahoma recently approved the FY 2025 budget, allocating an additional $25 million for education and $18 million in new money for county sheriff grants to boost salaries.
Their annual negotiations illustrate the differing priorities between the House and Senate in their most recently approved FY 2025 budget.

Conference Committee on Energy and Natural Resources

The Conference Committee on Energy and Natural Resources consists of 19 members, including a Chair and Vice Chair, focusing on energy policies and natural resource management within the state.
The committee addresses legislative matters related to energy production, sustainability, and environmental concerns, ensuring that Oklahoma's energy resources are utilized effectively while considering ecological impacts

Conference Committee on Utilities

The Conference Committee on Utilities comprises 12 members and is responsible for reviewing and resolving differences in utility-related legislation between the House and Senate to ensure effective regulatory practices.
The committee focuses on topics like energy policy, infrastructure development, and consumer protection within the utility sector, addressing the needs and concerns of Oklahoma residents.

Special Conference Committee on HB2775 and HB1935

The committee reviews and finalizes HB2775, which allocates $500 million for teacher pay raises and educational program enhancements, marking a significant investment in Oklahoma's education system.
It also examines HB1935, which introduces a parental choice tax credit, providing families with financial incentives to choose private education or homeschooling options

The GCCA includes nearly all members of the Oklahoma Legislature, reflecting a collaborative approach to budget-making to ensure it aligns with the values and needs of Oklahomans.
The committee is organized into subcommittees focusing on specific areas such as education, health and human services, and public safety, allowing for detailed examination and allocation of state funds

Special Conference Committee on SB 1399

This committee was formed to address Senate Bill 1399, which aims to create the Oklahoma Capital Assets Maintenance and Protection Act, establishing a dedicated fund for maintaining and protecting state property.
The bill received bipartisan support but was ultimately vetoed, indicating legislative concerns over certain provisions

Special Conference Committee on SB 473

The committee focuses on establishing a business court system in Oklahoma, aiming to expedite the resolution of complex commercial disputes and enhance the state’s appeal to businesses.
It is tasked with creating a report on the jurisdiction and operational framework for these courts, which is expected to be submitted by January 1, 2026

"No one person in the legislature ever accomplished anything. It's the hard work, determination, and the buy-in developed through committee work that always carries the day."

Terry O’Donnell on Committees: