Oklahoma City, OK – Two western Oklahoma state representatives are stepping into the spotlight this interim season with ambitious studies aimed at improving lives and shaping the state’s future. Rep. Nick Archer of Elk City and Rep. Anthony Moore of Clinton are leading or co-authoring several of the 152 legislative studies approved by House Speaker Kyle Hilbert to be reviewed before the 2026 legislative session.

“These studies allow legislators to explore a wide range of issues,” said Speaker Hilbert. “They’re a key tool for preparing policy and building public support.”

Rep. Nick Archer Tackles Big-Picture Policy

Rep. Archer is taking on a broad range of subjects, from child welfare to cutting-edge science and energy reform.

One study aims to revisit Oklahoma’s foster care payment system, reevaluating a failed proposal to raise the per diem rate and exploring new models to better support foster families, especially those caring for high-need children.

Archer is also teaming up with Rep. Preston Stinson on a pair of forward-looking studies. One titled *"Unlocking the Quantum Frontier"* explores how Oklahoma can lead in the field of quantum computing by investing in infrastructure, forming industry partnerships, and creating tax incentives. The second study, *"The Oklahoma Space Renaissance,"* looks at Oklahoma’s role in suborbital aerospace and space research. It will assess the viability of large-scale investments in the Oklahoma Spaceport and investigate opportunities in microgravity research and space manufacturing.

Closer to home, Archer has proposed a study examining the Oklahoma Corporation Commission’s Oil and Gas Conservation Division. With each inspector overseeing nearly 6,000 wells, the study will look at staffing shortages, outdated regulations, and the state’s underfunded orphaned well program—highlighting the urgent need for reform and additional resources to protect public safety and the environment.

Another Archer-led study will examine public health in relation to setback distances, likely referring to zoning or buffer requirements around potentially hazardous sites.

Rep. Anthony Moore Focuses on Criminal Justice Reform

Meanwhile, Rep. Anthony Moore is leading a study into Prosecutor-Initiated Resentencing (PIR). The study will evaluate how this law, which allows prosecutors to petition courts for sentence reductions, impacts recidivism, incarceration costs, and successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. It will also bring in voices from law enforcement, victims, and community leaders.

What’s Next

The interim study period begins August 4 and runs through November 6, with hearings scheduled by committee chairs. While these studies don’t guarantee legislation, they often set the stage for major policy shifts in upcoming sessions.

Both Archer and Moore are making sure rural Oklahoma has a strong voice in the state’s long-term vision.