Housing

HB 2189 creates the Oklahoma Workforce Housing Commission to oversee affordable housing initiatives. The commission, working with the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency, must submit annual reports to the legislature starting December 1, 2026. Key provisions include adjusting the commission's initial report deadline from 2034 to 2028 and requiring ongoing annual reporting to legislative leaders. This bill directly affects state housing programs and legislative oversight of affordable housing efforts. The commission's work aims to improve housing access through structured reporting and planning.

HB 1198 adds a $1,000 property tax break for Oklahoma homeowners with household income under $30,000 annually. It directly affects low-income primary homeowners (defined as those maintaining a home and providing for household necessities) by exempting $1,000 of their property's assessed value from taxes. Homeowners must apply yearly by March 15 (or within 30 days of a valuation notice) and certify income, which includes most earnings like Social Security but excludes veterans' benefits and pandemic relief payments. Seniors aged 65+ who previously qualified do not need annual applications but must report income exceeding $30,000 to maintain the exemption.