Pugh bills aimed at safer schools garner support

FOX23.com News Staff  Feb 17, 2026 

OKLAHOMA CITY — State Superintendent Lindel Fields announced his support for two bills: Senate Bill 1189 and Senate Bill 1719. 

Oklahoma Senator Adam Pugh’s SB 1189 seeks to provide funding to school security and Senator Ally Seifried's SB 1719 would extend the banning of cellphones in classrooms. 

Specifically, SB 1189 would dedicate money to districts to strengthen campus security and add more staff. Fields believes a continued investment in school security is needed in order to maintain safety for faculty, staff, students, and parents. 

While the use of cell phones and personal devices in classrooms during the day is already not allowed for students, SB 1719 would further extend this law. The bill would build on the present legislation. 

“The safety of our students and educators is paramount to learning,” said Superintendent Fields. “Families deserve confidence that schools are secure, and districts must have the resources necessary to maintain or improve meaningful safety measures.” 

Fields said both proposed laws are in alignment with the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s ongoing mission to better the learning environments of students across Oklahoma. 

“Public schools exist to educate and prepare the next generation for success,” Fields said. “Protecting instructional time by reducing digital distractions helps ensure students can fully engage in learning and develop the focus and discipline necessary for long-term achievement.” 

Both bills are currently under consideration.