NewsWorkforce
WSJ columnist warns teen job market is weakening
A Wall Street Journal opinion column argues that fewer teenagers are getting early work experience at a time when entry-level summer jobs are becoming…
Author: Luke Reynolds
Luke Reynolds serves as Public Affairs Director for the State Chamber of Oklahoma, where he leads strategic communications and advocacy initiatives to advance pro-business policies and strengthen Oklahoma’s economic climate. In this role, Luke crafts compelling narratives on complex legislative issues, manages editorial content for Oklahoma Business Voice, and collaborates closely with government affairs leaders to amplify the voice of Oklahoma’s business community at the Capitol.
With a background in communications and public policy, Luke is passionate about connecting business and government to create opportunities for growth and prosperity across the state.
NewsPolicy
SQ 832’s automatic wage escalator could outpace Oklahoma inflation
Recent data show the national CPI-W can run hotter than Oklahoma’s own regional inflation measure, turning an index mismatch into higher labor costs.
NewsWorkforce
State Regents to consider performance funding plan for higher education
The proposed formula would tie more state funding to enrollment, completion, student opportunity and workforce outcomes.
NewsWorkforce
Oklahoma makes ‘Bell to Bell, No Cell’ permanent
Gov. Kevin Stitt signed HB 1276 into law, extending a statewide school cell phone restriction that began as a one-year pilot backed by Sen. Ally Seifried.
NewsWorkforce
State education secretary touts 2026 reform package
Dan Hamlin said the legislative session delivered major changes on literacy, instructional time, teacher pay, school choice, and classroom cell phone restrictions.
NewsWorkforce
Poll: Oklahoma business leaders optimistic, but focused on workforce gaps
The 2026 survey found business leaders are optimistic about Oklahoma’s direction, but remain focused on workforce, infrastructure, innovation, and long-term competitiveness.
NewsPolicy
Stitt urges No vote on SQ 832
The governor joins a growing list of Oklahoma elected officials, local leaders, and business advocates speaking out against the minimum wage state question.
NewsPolicy
Bullard speaks out against SQ 832
The Durant Republican said the minimum wage state question would hurt Oklahoma’s free market economy and increase costs for working families.
NewsPolicy
Survey: Oklahomans cutting spending as prices rise
A May survey of 645 Oklahomans found most households say everyday expenses have become harder to afford over the past year.
NewsPolicy
Broken Arrow Chamber, BAEDC boards oppose SQ 832
The organizations said the measure’s automatic wage escalator would create long-term uncertainty for Oklahoma employers and workers.