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Bill

SB 137

Department of Corrections; creating the Oklahoma State Penitentiary Prison Rodeo Revolving Fund; making an appropriation. Effective date. Emergency.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Warren Hamilton

SB 137 creates a self-funding revolving account for Oklahoma's prison rodeo to retain event revenue and reduce annual appropriations needs.

Second Reading referred to Appropriations
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Bill Summary · SB 137

Legislative bill overview

SB 137 establishes a dedicated revolving fund for the Oklahoma State Penitentiary Prison Rodeo, allowing revenue generated from the event to be reinvested directly into its operations rather than flowing through the general appropriations process. The bill includes emergency provisions for immediate implementation.

Why is this important

Prison rodeos generate revenue through ticket sales and concessions while serving as a rehabilitative program and public engagement tool. Creating a revolving fund streamlines operational funding and allows the event to become more financially self-sustaining without requiring annual legislative appropriations.

Potential points of contention

  • Prisoner labor compensation: Prison rodeos involve inmate performers; questions may arise about how profits are allocated versus wages or rehabilitation program funding for participants
  • Public safety and liability: Rodeo events involve inherent risks; the bill's emergency status and revolving fund structure may lack adequate oversight mechanisms for liability and safety protocols
  • Appropriations transparency: Revolving funds can reduce legislative scrutiny; critics may argue this removes public accountability over how corrections department funds are spent on entertainment-focused programming

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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