Thompson bill expands R&D incentives, adds transparency requirements
The Senate advanced SB 1530, which boosts Oklahoma’s R&D rebate for companies partnering with in‑state universities and requires annual reporting on the program’s return on investment.
OKLAHOMA CITY (OBV) — The Senate voted 36–4 to approve SB 1530, Sen. Kristen Thompson’s proposal to enhance the state’s Research and Development Rebate Program. The bill adds a 2% bonus rebate for companies conducting qualifying research in partnership with an Oklahoma college or university and directs the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to publish annual ROI data for taxpayers.
“Oklahoma has tremendous potential to lead in innovation, but that only happens when we strengthen the partnerships between our businesses and our universities,” Thompson said.
She added that the bill rewards companies investing in “real research and development” and increases program transparency.
SB 1530 also clarifies the definition of qualifying R&D to ensure incentives support bona fide innovation rather than routine testing or market research. The program is designed to attract new industries and expand high‑skill job opportunities across the state.
The measure now moves to the House for consideration.
