by Jessica Dietrich, Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy and Bailey Ashbaker, Senior Policy Analyst and Engagement Specialist
Welcome to November’s edition of Capitol Insider. Frankly, we’re not sure where to begin; the policy environment over this past month has been ever-changing and highly volatile. As we approach the holiday season, we hope you’re able to find a moment of respite. Need a break from doom scrolling? Check out the Good News Network for more uplifting news stories you might not see on your regular feed.
State Updates
As a result of the government shutdown, on November. 1, 2025, Oklahoma SNAP benefits, which are over $120 million a month in Oklahoma, or about $30 million per week, were paused for the first time in history. Read more about this in our CEO’s letter.
Upcoming State Legislative Dates & Deadlines
- Deadline for Requesting the Drafting of House and Senate Bills and Joint Resolutions: December 5, 2025
- Deadline for Senate Fiscal Bill Filing: December 19, 2025
- Deadline for Filing of Bills and Joint Resolutions: January 15, 2026, 4:00 p.m.
All carryover legislation from the First Session of the 60th Legislature is eligible for consideration during the 2026 session. In total, 2,614 bills and Joint Resolutions from 2025 will remain eligible next year in addition to any new bills filed before the January 15, 2026, filing deadline
Rep. Forrest Bennett formally resigned from his position at the State House. Governor Stitt will have 30 days to call a special election to fill the vacancy for House District 92 (South OKC). Bennett’s resignation is effective December 1.
SAVE THE DATE for Anti-Hunger Day at the Oklahoma Capitol! Join us February 24 to raise awareness about hunger and food insecurity. More details coming soon!
Federal Updates
Late November 12, President Trump signed a bill to end the 43-day government shutdown. The bill passed by Congress and signed by Trump funds the government until January 30, 2026. Full fiscal year funds were passed for USDA (including SNAP and WIC), the Department of Veterans Affairs, Military, and Congress to operate through the end of September 2026.
Recently, the Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Brooke Rollins, indicated that the Trump administration may require current SNAP participants to reapply for SNAP, despite existing requirements that participants regularly recertify their incomes and other factors that determine eligibility. There is currently no additional information on when or how this policy will be implemented.
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