Oklahoma Set to Carry Out First Execution of the Year
Oklahoma’s first execution of the year is scheduled for Thursday morning.
Wendell Grissom, 56, will be put to death by lethal injection.
He received the sentence more than a decade ago – for the 2005 killing of Amber Matthews.
Grissom fatally shot Matthews and injured her friend during a home invasion in Blaine County.
His fate was solidified earlier this year when the Pardon and Parole Board denied a request for clemency.
Grissom’s attorneys say he suffered from brain damage that was never presented to a jury. They also told the board Grissom has always accepted responsibility and expressed remorse for Matthews’ killing.
Oklahoma Senate Passes Bill Limiting Citizen-Led Petitions
The Oklahoma Senate passed a bill tightening rules on citizen-led policymaking.
Senate Bill 1027 would limit petition signatures from high-population areas and require signature collectors to be Oklahoma voters.
The measure’s author, Senator David Bullard, estimates the new caps would force collectors to get signatures from at least 22 of Oklahoma’s 77 counties.
The Durant Republican says that will prevent petition organizers from ignoring rural counties.
"Why would we sit back and watch these leftist organizations march into our state, change our laws and fight for the status quo so they can continue to do more of that?," Bullard said.
The bill also blocks out-of-state funding for petition circulation and mandates transparency in paid signature collection.
Supporters say it ensures statewide representation, while opponents argue it restricts citizen participation.
The measure now moves to the state House for consideration.
Opponents Appeal Norman Entertainment District Petition Ruling
Opponents of Norman’s proposed $1 billion entertainment district have taken their fight to the Oklahoma Supreme Court.
The Oklahoma For Responsible Economic Development group is appealing a lower court ruling that invalidated a petition to force a public vote on the project.
The group argues the petition’s summary was lawful and that Norman residents’ referendum rights were ignored.
Proponents say the district will create jobs and boost the economy, while critics warn of financial risks.
The Supreme Court will now consider the appeal.
Last fall, the Norman City Council voted to approve the Rock Creek Entertainment District and tax increment financing.
OCU Accounting Students Offer Free Tax Help
Oklahoma City University accounting students are helping people file taxes through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.
The no-cost tax preparation service runs through April 12 at the Meinders School of Business.
Services are available on select dates and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
The IRS-sponsored program assists low-income taxpayers, persons with disabilities and those needing extra help.
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