Oklahoma Lawmakers Advance Bills to Restrict Foreign Influence

Oklahoma lawmakers are advancing a series of legislative proposals aimed at restricting the influence of foreign laws and entities within the state. These measures seek to limit foreign ownership of land and critical infrastructure while reinforcing the constitutional rights of Oklahomans. The initiatives reflect a broader commitment to uphold state sovereignty and address concerns regarding national security.

State Representative Gabe Woolley has introduced House Joint Resolution 1040, which prohibits Oklahoma courts from applying Sharia law or any foreign legal system in their decisions. Woolley emphasized the need for courts to operate strictly within the framework of the U.S. Constitution and Oklahoma law. He described the resolution as a necessary step to protect the constitutional rights of citizens and maintain homeland security, characterizing Sharia law as a political ideology that threatens free societies.

In support of this effort, State Senator David Bullard has put forward a related proposal in the state Senate. His Senate Joint Resolution 15 aims to amend Section 1 of Article VII of the Oklahoma Constitution. This amendment would ensure that no state court or government entity recognizes or enforces any foreign religious code, law, custom, or practice that is incompatible with the Oklahoma or U.S. Constitutions. The proposal includes a ballot title for voters to consider, reinforcing the intent to safeguard individual rights and liberties.

Bullard highlighted the ongoing threats to Western culture, referencing George Washington‘s Farewell Address to stress the importance of protecting constitutional integrity and resisting changes that undermine democratic principles.

Restricting Foreign Ownership and Terrorist Influence

The legislative push also includes measures to address foreign ownership of land and critical infrastructure. Senator Warren Hamilton has filed multiple bills to tackle these concerns. Notably, Senate Bill 1679, titled the Preserving Oklahoma Values Act, aims to establish safeguards to limit foreign influence and reinforce state sovereignty. Additionally, Senate Bill 1672 seeks to restrict foreign ownership of land within Oklahoma, while Senate Bill 1963 focuses on protecting critical infrastructure from acquisition by foreign entities.

Hamilton has voiced strong opposition to allowing foreign entities to own land in the U.S., labeling such actions as treasonous. He advocates for ensuring that control of Oklahoma’s strategic assets remains in American hands, particularly to thwart potential threats from hostile foreign interests.

Complementing these initiatives, State Senator Julie McIntosh has introduced Senate Bill 1784, which aims to prevent ownership or influence by terrorist organizations within Oklahoma. This legislation is intended to thwart any attempts by hostile foreign entities to establish financial or organizational bases in the state. McIntosh stated that the bill is designed to protect Oklahomans while upholding constitutional freedoms, ensuring that taxpayer funds and state resources are not used to support terrorism.

These legislative proposals collectively represent a proactive strategy to bolster Oklahoma’s defenses against foreign influence and potential threats. They echo a commitment to uphold constitutional principles and protect the rights and freedoms of the state’s residents. As these bills progress, the emphasis remains on ensuring that the rule of law and the rights of Oklahomans are preserved in the face of evolving challenges.