FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Workforce Transformation Becomes Law in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY (June 14,2023) – With the stroke of his pen, Gov. Kevin Stitt and the State Legislature has set Oklahoma on a path toward workforce transformation. The Oklahoma State Senate and House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 621 and Gov. Stitt signed it into law.
The bill creates the Oklahoma Workforce Commission. Led by private sector business leaders, the commission will direct the state’s workforce development strategy and initiatives.
Senate Bill 621, authored by Sen. Adam Pugh and Rep. Brian Hill, is designed to break down silos and limit duplication in the current workforce pipeline, ultimately leading to more direct and efficient completion of education pathways. That means more skilled workers for employers and better paying careers for Oklahomans.
“As Oklahoma’s economic outlook continues to expand, it’s pertinent that our workforce grows with the demand, which is why this session I challenged the Workforce Transformation Task Force with identifying our state’s key areas of improvement on this front; and while our work isn’t over, I’m thrilled about the momentum we’ve made,” said Governor Stitt. “Through improvements like creating a Secretary of Workforce and signing SB 621, Oklahoma can set up the framework for meaningful solutions to grow, develop and maximize our state’s labor pool to expand our state’s economy and create better jobs for Oklahomans.”
“SB 621 has a state funding component to it. I want to ensure that for the first time in Oklahoma’s history, the state is providing funds to assist with our workforce plan. We want to ensure when we’re going out around the state and doing economic development, the workforce is available as companies are expanding, growing, and moving into the state of Oklahoma,” said Pugh.
After being amended in conference committee, the bill passed with overwhelming support, 34-10, in the Senate and with a strong majority in the House, 60-32.
“I believe this is the moment we’ll look back on decades from now and know this was a pivotal shift for us as a state. This is a tremendous victory for our workforce, our families and for Oklahoma,” said Rep. Hill.
Chad Warmington, president and CEO of The State Chamber, is a leading proponent of revitalizing the workforce and supports creating the Oklahoma Workforce Commission.
“This is a huge step forward for Oklahoma. Workforce is the number one concern of businesses in our state. We appreciate the years of work that so many have put in to make this a reality. We thank the legislature and the governor for seeing this across the finish line. Senate Bill 621 makes transformational changes to workforce development that will benefit Oklahoma. We are excited for the future growth and prosperity this will bring to our state,” said Warmington.
Media Contact
Brent Skarky
405-818-1939
Brent@okstatechamber.com
