Care Providers Oklahoma applauded the Oklahoma Legislature for passing Senate Bill 253, a new law that strengthens transparency and equips state leaders with the information necessary to evaluate whether the state is adequately funding care for vulnerable seniors and Oklahomans with disabilities.
The new law, written by Sen. Hines and Reps. Stinson and Osburn, requires the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) to include as part of its annual budget reporting what level of funding—both state and federal—is needed to fully cover the actual costs of care at nursing homes and facilities for people with intellectual disabilities. SB 253 became law on Thursday (5/15) without the governor’s signature.
“Recent cost reports from the Oklahoma Health Care Authority show what our providers have long known: Oklahoma nursing homes are significantly underfunded and are not reimbursed at a level equal to the actual cost of care,” said Steven Buck, President and CEO of Care Providers Oklahoma. “SB 253 is a critical step toward transparency and accountability. It ensures the Legislature has a clear and consistent understanding of the funding gap so it can make informed decisions about how we invest in the care of our most vulnerable citizens.”
The new law, which takes effect November 1, 2025, will help policymakers more accurately assess and prioritize long-term care needs during the budgeting process. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority has been providing the information voluntarily for the past three years.
“We’re grateful to the Legislature for their unanimous support of this important transparency measure,” Buck said. “This is a meaningful win for the thousands of Oklahomans who rely on skilled nursing and intermediate care services—and for the dedicated professionals who provide that care every day.”
