Stephanie I. Bice

FY26 Community Project Funding Awarded to Oklahoma’s Fifth District

Position: The release announces federal Community Project Funding for three Oklahoma projects, including emergency communications modernization, security improvements at a children's hospital, and forensic science equipment at a university. It frames this funding as returning taxpayer dollars to local communities.

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice announced that three projects in Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District received award notifications for a total of $2,721,813 in Community Project Funding secured by the Congresswoman through the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. This funding will modernize Guthrie’s Central Communications Center, which supports emergency communications for 5 police departments and 12 fire departments; improve security at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, which serves approximately 12,000 inpatients, 35,000 emergency patients, and 250,000 outpatient visits annually; and allow the University of Central Oklahoma’s Forensic Science Institute to acquire new, state of the art technology to support students and the University’s work with law enforcement. “I am proud to have secured these critical investments for Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District,”Congresswoman Bice said.“These projects are great examples of how we can bring taxpayer dollars back home to support the important work already being done in our communities. I am grateful to everyone who helped make these projects possible and look forward to seeing the difference this funding will make.” “We are constantly looking for ways to improve our infrastructure and our equipment without placing the entire burden on our local taxpayers, and federal grants are a huge part of that,” Guthrie City Manager Eddie Faulkner said. During the event, Guthrie Police Chief Sweger previously provided a technical overview of the project, detailing how the grant will revitalize the dispatch center. He stated,“The upgrades needed to handle the volume of calls we receive often outweigh our fiscal abilities. These funds will help alleviate some of that weight and ensure the continuance of service to our region.” “Healthcare workers save lives every day. Ensuring their safety is not merely a workplace issue — it is a public health imperative and a moral obligation,” said Richard P. Lofgren, M.D., MPH, President and CEO of OU Health.“We commend Congresswoman Bice for her continued engagement on this critical matter and call on federal, state, and institutional leaders to invest in the people who make our healthcare system possible.” “The University of Central Oklahoma appreciates Congresswoman Stephanie Bice’s support and recognition of our outstanding students and faculty in the Forensic Science Institute. This funding allows the university to continue building the nation’s premier forensic science education program, driving workforce development in the critical area of law enforcement,”said UCO President Todd G. Lamb.

Rep. Bice's Bureau of Land Management Mineral Spacing Act Advances out of Natural Resources Committee

Position: Supports H.R. 1555, the BLM Mineral Spacing Act, which would allow oil and natural gas projects on lands with minority federal subsurface ownership to proceed under state and private permitting requirements rather than duplicative federal permitting.

Washington D.C. – Today, H.R. 1555, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Mineral Spacing Act, passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would address duplicative federal permitting requirements for oil and natural gas development on lands where the federal government holds minority ownership. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I’m proud to advance this commonsense legislation that respects private mineral owners and supports American energy production. Right now, energy projects can be forced to go through both state and federal permitting processes even when the federal government owns less than half of the subsurface estate. The BLM Mineral Spacing Act would eliminate this duplicative process and allow these projects to move forward under applicable state and private requirements, while still protecting the federal government’s mineral interests and royalties.” Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) issued the following statement: “Duplicative federal permitting requirements delay American energy production without improving oversight. H.R. 1555 allows operators with state-approved permits to move forward when the surface is nonfederal and less than half of the subsurface mineral estate is federally owned, establishing a more predictable process. I commend Rep. Bice for advancing a practical solution that respects state regulators, maintains federal accountability and supports President Trump’s commitment to American energy dominance.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132

Bice and Womack Introduce the No Preference Act

Position: Supports legislation preventing the Executive Branch from giving federal contracting preference to contractors based solely on whether their workers are covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05) introduced the No Preference Act with Congressman Steve Womack (AR-03) serving as co-lead. This legislation would prevent the Executive Branch from giving preference to federal contractors based solely on whether their workers are part of a collective bargaining agreement. “Every qualified contractor deserves a fair opportunity to compete for federal projects,”said Congresswoman Bice.“The government should not favor one individual over another simply because their workers are part of a union. This legislation ensures that right to work states, like Oklahoma, have an equal footing when competing for contracts.” “When our federal government selects a contractor, the decision should be based on merit and the most efficient use of resources entrusted by the American taxpayer,”said Congressman Womack. “The playing field shouldn’t be skewed toward contractors who choose to use union labor. I am proud to join Congresswoman Bice's efforts to ensure all businesses and workers have the same opportunities to compete for federal work regardless of labor agreement.” “ABC applauds Rep. Bice for introducing legislation that puts taxpayers first,”said Kristen Swearingen, ABC vice president of government affairs. “Federal contracts should be awarded based on performance and value, not because the government favors one type of labor agreement over another. This bill allows contractors to decide for themselves whether to sign a union agreement and gives every qualified contractor and skilled worker a fair chance to compete. More competition means more opportunities for workers and better value for taxpayers.” Executive Director at the Association of Oklahoma General Contractors said“We believe that fair open competition is always the best path forward. The only preference should be for qualified contractors to bid aggressively!" Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132

Bice Supports Continuing Resolution to Fund the Government

Position: The release supports a continuing resolution funding the federal government through December 11, 2026, at Republican spending levels, and attributes the need for it to delays by Senate Democrats.

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Bice voted in support of a continuing resolution to fund the government through December 11, 2026. Importantly, this funding maintains Republican spending levels and includes priorities of the Trump Administration. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills through regular order out of committee. In July, the House passed a continuing resolution to fully fund the government. The Senate recently amended the legislation forcing the House to pass it again before it can be signed into law by President Trump. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I am incredibly proud of the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills out of our committee. However, due to delays and disruption by Senate Democrats, a continuing resolution was needed to avoid another partisan, Democrat-driven government wide shutdown. This legislation is straightforward, continues responsible spending, and contains no poison pills, ensuring we put the American people ahead of politics.”

Bice Welcomes HUD Secretary Scott Turner to Oklahoma's Fifth District

Position: The release praises a nonprofit's youth housing and support services in Oklahoma City and commends the Trump Administration's support for Oklahoma, while paying tribute to victims of the Oklahoma City bombing.

Washington, D.C. – On Friday, Congresswoman Bice welcomed HUD Secretary Scott Turner to Oklahoma City and Pivot’s Tiny Home community, which provides stable housing and supportive services for youth aged 16-24. Pivot is a nonprofit in Oklahoma City that offers programs such as counseling, educational and vocational training, housing, and intervention and diversion services for youth aged 12-24, who are homeless or are otherwise at-risk. The pair also visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum to pay tribute to the federal employees who lost their lives in the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. “Secretary Turner’s visit to Pivot allowed him to witness the incredible work being done in our community to provide support services for foster youth. First Lady Melania Trump has made foster care a pivotal part of her platform, and organizations like Pivot are vital to that mission,”said Congresswoman Bice. “I also appreciate his willingness to pay tribute to the individuals who lost their lives in the Oklahoma City Bombing. If you want to understand Oklahoma City, it is essential to visit this museum, and witness how the city came together in its aftermath to create the Oklahoma Standard. I want to thank the Secretary for visiting my district, and I appreciate the Trump Administration’s continued support for Oklahoma.” “It was a privilege to see firsthand the extraordinary work Pivot is doing to help vulnerable youth. Through their tiny homes village and wrap around services, they are helping Oklahoma’s youth move from homelessness to self-sufficiency,” said HUD Secretary Turner. "I am grateful to Congresswoman Bice for her steadfast commitment to empowering local organizations that know their communities best and are delivering real results.” Secretary Turner continued, “While in Oklahoma City, it was a profound honor to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial to pay tribute to the 35 HUD employees who lost their lives in the bombing. America is a resilient nation, and we will never forget the precious people who perished on that day. I am proud to support the HUD family in Oklahoma and all across our Nation. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132

Bice Supports Legislation to Stop Insider Trading

Position: The release supports the Stop Insider Trading Act, which would bar Members of Congress, their spouses, and dependent children from buying individual stocks and add public disclosure requirements for stock sales.

Washington D.C.- Today, the House passed the Stop Insider Trading Act, legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability in Congress. This legislation prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing individual stocks and establishes additional public disclosure requirements for stock sales. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I was proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Stop Insider Trading Act. The American people deserve to know their elected officials are serving the public, not their own financial interests. Members of Congress should be held to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, and this legislation is an important step toward restoring trust in Congress.” Bill Summary: The Stop Insider Trading Act would: Ban Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing securities issued by publicly traded companies. Require Members of Congress to file a public notice with the Clerk of the House or the Secretary of the Senate at least 7 days, but no more than 14 days before any intended stock sale. Require the House Ethics Committee to assess a penalty equal to the greater value of $2,000 or 10% of the covered investment Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132

Bice Supports Budget Reconciliation Bill

Position: The release supports a House budget reconciliation concurrent resolution directing committees to draft legislation on election security, military funding, and farm support. It also references support for voter ID and the SAVE Act.

Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives took the first step in passing their third reconciliation bill of the 119th Congress. This concurrent resolution instructs three committees: the Committee on House Administration, the Armed Services Committee, and the Agriculture Committee to draft legislative text to secure America’s elections and support our troops and farmers. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Administration Committee and has supported voter ID and the Save Act both in committee and on the House floor. Reconciliation bills only require a simple majority in the Senate. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Strengthening our military, securing our elections, and supporting our farmers are all essential in keeping America safe, secure, and prosperous. This budget resolution takes the first step in ensuring that our troops have the munitions they need to protect themselves and our homeland. Importantly, it also mimics my legislation, the STEADFAST Act, which contains budgetary mechanisms to help secure our elections, in line with the SAVE Act. This is a critical step in the process, and I was proud to support it.” More information on the STEADFAST Act, which passed the House Administration Committee, can be found here. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132

Bice Supports Continuing Resolution

Position: The release supports a clean continuing resolution to fund the federal government through December 4, 2026, and urges the Senate to pass it to avoid a government-wide shutdown.

Washington, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Bice supported a continuing resolution to fund government through December 4, 2026. Importantly, this funding maintains Republican spending levels and priorities of the Trump Administration. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills through regular order out of committee. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I am incredibly proud of the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills out of our committee. However, due to the inaction of Senate Democrats, a clean continuing resolution is needed to prevent a partisan, Democrat-driven government-wide shutdown, similar to what we witnessed last year. With the current Fiscal Year ending on September 30th, this legislation is straightforward and continues responsible spending with no poison pills. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take up this legislation and put the American people ahead of politics." Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132 Issues:Budget and Spending

Rep. Bice Supports Reconciliation Bill to Fully Fund DHS

Position: The release supports a reconciliation bill that fully funds U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through the end of the current presidential administration, and criticizes Democrats for delaying DHS funding.

Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House passed the Senate’s reconciliation bill which would fully fund Customs and Border Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through the end of President Trump’s Administration. This legislation heads to the White House to be signed into law. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Under the Biden Administration, more than 10 million illegal immigrants crossed our southern border. This included drug smugglers, human traffickers, criminal organizations, and even terrorists on the FBI watchlist. After walking away on a negotiated appropriations package to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security, Democrats have repeatedly dug their heels in, playing political games with DHS funding. Today’s legislation ensures that those who protect our southern border can not be held hostage again. This legislation was long overdue. Under my friend and fellow Oklahoman, Secretary Mullin, I know the department will continue to ensure our border is closed, ultimately protecting our homeland." Congresswoman Bice spoke on the floor regarding this legislation and her remarks can be found here. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132

Reps. Bice, Lucas, Cole, Join FAA Administrator Bedford in Tour of Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center

Oklahoma City, OK – Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05), along with Representatives Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), and Tom Cole (OK-04), joined Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford in touring the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center’s Air Traffic Control Training Academy. The tour, which included visits to the Tower Simulator System Lab and the En Route Automation Modernization Lab, provided an overview of controller training programs and technologies used to prepare the aviation workforce. Throughout their time in Congress, Representatives Bice, Cole, and Lucas, have been able to secure federal dollars for the Center. This year, through Fiscal Year 2026 funding, the Representatives fought for and secured $152 million dollars to ensure the facilities at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center remain the gold standard for all operations occurring at the Center, as well as for air traffic controller recruitment, training, and equipment to ensure the next generation of air traffic controllers have the tools they need to learn how to safely conduct air traffic within the national airspace system. After the tour, the Representatives and Administrator Bedford released the following statements: Congresswoman Bice said,“It was great to be alongside Administrator Bedford at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. On his visit, the first by an FAA Administrator in a decade, we witnessed the incredible work happening daily in Oklahoma City. I was proud to see new innovative technologies, funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which are helping to prepare future air traffic controllers and the next generation of professionals. Their mission is critical and the Oklahoma delegation is laser focused on providing the support they need.” “I’m grateful to the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including Chairman Tom Cole, Representative Frank Lucas, Vice Chair Stephanie Bice as well as Senators Lankford and Armstrong for their strong leadership here in Oklahoma. This center is one of the crown jewels of research and development, and sustainment for the national airspace system,”said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.“It all happens here. Training new air traffic controllers, technicians, and first and second level engineers. We had the most successful recruiting day in the history of the FAA for our air traffic controllers, we’ve shortened the hiring process and we are getting trainees into the Academy faster than ever.” “It was a great day in Oklahoma City with Administrator Bedford as we toured the impressive Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Congressman Lucas. “The innovative technology that we saw today has, and will continue to, completely change the training curriculum for future aviation experts. This will bring our nation’s opportunities in aviation to new heights, and it will also enable our workforce to be equipped with more skills and services that will only further advance their careers. I’m optimistic about the future of aviation, and I’m proud that this innovation is occurring here in Oklahoma’s third congressional district.” “Thanks to the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Oklahoma has long been a hub for aerospace and aviation industry development. The Center is not only a key administrative, research, and safety hub for the FAA, but it is also home to the FAA Academy, which is the only training center in the country for FAA-certified air traffic controllers. Therefore, it is no exaggeration to say that America’s national aviation industry cannot exist without the workforce the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center produces – and that was made very clear through the advanced technology and new curriculum we saw on the tour today,” said Congressman Cole. “I would like to thank FAA Administrator Bedford for taking the time to come out to Oklahoma, as it is critical for the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center to continue to thrive.”