Trish Ranson's Authored Bills for the 2026 Legislative Session
- Trish Ranson
- Jan 27
- 3 min read
The work of the Oklahoma Legislature doesn’t begin on the first day of session.
Through preparation, study, conversation and careful planning, my work and the work of my colleagues builds in the months leading to the opening gavel. Now, we are just days away from session’s start and the capitol is already buzzing as priorities for the year begin to take shape.
This session, I have submitted 7 bills for consideration in addition to the 4 bills still in play from last year’s legislative session. These bills reflect long-term policy goals and immediate concerns raised by the citizens of Stillwater and House District 34. Let’s take a look at every bill I’ve submitted this session:
HB3378 - Amends the term of service for the Oklahoma Science and Technology Research and Development Board (OSTRAD).
This bill reforms the Oklahoma Science and Technology Research and Development (OSTRAD) Board by staggering member terms so the board never becomes vacant all at once. Why does this matter? When every member’s term expired at the same time last year, grant decisions were delayed for months—hindering researchers who rely on timely funding. By creating continuity, this fix helps keep Oklahoma research competitive and moving forward.
HB3379 - The Higher Education Workforce Development and Fair Admissions Act.
This bill aims to remove college admission denial based solely on past felony convictions. This “ban-the-box” style reform allows colleges and universities to ask about criminal history but prohibits them from using it as an automatic disqualifier for admission - except in cases involving sexual offenses or assault. It’s about workforce development, community reintegration and giving people a real chance to build a better future.
HB3380 - Fostering the Future for Oklahoma Children and Families Act.
Inspired by President Trump’s federal executive order and community feedback, this bill proposes improvements to data collection and oversight, ensuring the state lives up to its responsibility to keep children safe and supported while in care. Foster families provide critical care, and this bill pushes the state to match that commitment with clear structure and accountability.
HB3381 - District Attorney Case Referral Reporting
This bill requires district attorneys to file quarterly reports with the District Attorney Council on cases involving children and youth. This is a smart first step toward understanding patterns, spotlighting gaps and equipping policymakers with the data they need to improve outcomes for families and communities.
HB3382 - State Employee Compensation Adjustment
For state employees making under $70,000 annually, the bill proposes an 8.5% pay raise, while employees above that threshold would receive a 2% raise. This not only keeps up with rising inflation, it retains talent, reduces turnover and shows appreciation for the people who keep our state running day after day.
HB3383 - State Employee Work Hour Limit
This bill caps shift hours for state employees at 14 hours per day to help prevent burnout, especially in critical areas like child welfare. This change comes directly from frontline workers who are stretched too thin and deserve policies that protect their wellbeing as they serve the public.
HB3384 - Homeowner’s Insurance Premium Increase Cap
This bill responds to constituent concerns about major rate hikes by proposing a 10% cap on annual property insurance increases. While insurance markets are complex and the bill may spark debate, the goal is to start a conversation about fairness and consumer protections for Oklahoma homeowners.
Now, let’s look at the bills carried over from the 2025 legislative session:
HB1979 - Early Childhood Task Force
Investing early in ages zero through five yields enormous returns in education, health and long-term success.With the passing of this bill, Oklahoma would establish a task force to explore the creation of a stand-alone early childhood agency that would bring together programs currently spread across multiple departments. This bill brings together agency leaders, advocates, pediatricians and parents to listen, design and craft a plan that can ultimately become law. This is a big vision that could transform how Oklahoma supports young children and families.
HB1981 - Strong Readers Act
This bill reduces kindergarten literacy tests from three per year to two, with only one required before winter break. The goal is to better target interventions and avoid unnecessary stress for young learners and teachers alike, while still tracking progress meaningfully.
HB1982 - Contract for School Materials
This bill aims to improve how instructional materials are selected and contracted in Oklahoma schools. This bill has already made it out of the House and into the Senate, where a Senate author has taken it on.
HB1983 - Media Literacy and Cybersecurity Education
This bill promotes media literacy and cybersecurity education, including helping students navigate false information and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. This bill sits with appropriations, waiting for committee attention so it can get a hearing.
For questions or comments regarding Trish Ranson's bills for the 2026 Legislative Session, please contact her legislative office at 405-557-7411 or email her at Trish.ranson@okhouse.gov.
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