OKLAHOMA CITY – The veto of a bill that would allow state funding for the Office of Liaison for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons, HB 1137, was overridden by the House and the Senate.
The bill’s author, Rep. Ron Stewart, D-Tulsa, celebrated the veto override.
“Today, the Oklahoma Legislature demonstrated its unwavering commitment to justice and accountability by overriding the Governor’s veto of House Bill 1137,” Stewart said. “I am deeply grateful to my colleagues in both chambers–Democrats and Republicans–who stood together to prioritize the safety and dignity of Indigenous communities across our state.
“This vote is more than a legislative victory–it is a moral affirmation that missing and murdered Indigenous persons will not be forgotten or ignored in Oklahoma. I want to especially thank the families, advocates, and tribal leaders who have fought tirelessly to ensure this moment became possible. Your voices were heard.
“Together, we have sent a clear message: our shared future must be built on respect, equity, and action. The work continues, but today, we took a bold step forward.”
