Posts by: Wyatt Stanford

Governor Stitt Issues Executive Order Strengthening Oversight of Medicare Advantage Plans

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For Immediate Release:
January 23, 2026

Governor Stitt Issues Executive Order Strengthening Oversight of Medicare Advantage Plans

New Requirements Will Protect Oklahoma Seniors, Providers, and the Stability of Care Networks

 

OKLAHOMA CITY— Governor Kevin Stitt has issued a new executive order establishing additional requirements for Medicare Advantage (MA) plans operating in Oklahoma, a move designed to better protect consumers and medical providers while strengthening accountability in the marketplace.

The executive order requires Medicare Advantage plans to have appropriate contracts with medical providers, ensuring patients have access to care and that providers are treated fairly and paid appropriately. By reinforcing network adequacy and contractual standards, the order addresses ongoing concerns about disruptions in care, surprise billing, and instability for seniors who rely on Medicare Advantage coverage.

“This executive order is an important step toward protecting Oklahoma consumers and the medical professionals who care for them,” said Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “Medicare Advantage plans play a growing role in our healthcare system, and it is essential that they operate responsibly, transparently, and with enforceable commitments to both patients and providers.”

Mulready noted that he has long advocated at the federal level for greater authority for state insurance departments to oversee Medicare Advantage plans and to intervene when consumers or providers are harmed.

“We need Oklahomans taking care of Oklahomans,” Mulready said.

“For years, I have pushed for more tools and authority at the state level so state insurance departments can better address problems with Medicare Advantage plans,” Mulready said. “While federal reforms are still needed, this executive order represents a meaningful step in the right direction and demonstrates Oklahoma’s commitment to consumer protection.”

The executive order reinforces the state’s role in monitoring insurer practices, promoting stability in provider networks, and ensuring that Medicare Advantage enrollees receive the care they are promised.

“As enrollment in Medicare Advantage continues to grow, proactive oversight is critical,” Mulready added. “This action by Governor Stitt helps bring balance to the system and ensures accountability where it matters most — for Oklahoma seniors and the healthcare providers who serve them.”

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Oklahoma Insurance Department Offers Free Medicare Webinar Live and On-Demand

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For Immediate Release:
January 22, 2026

Oklahoma Insurance Department Offers Free Medicare Webinar Live and On-Demand

 

OKLAHOMA CITY— The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s (OID) Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) will continue its free Medicare Mondays webinar series in 2026, offering live and on-demand education for Oklahomans navigating Medicare.

The webinars, which take place at 10 a.m. on the first Monday of each month, provide unbiased information on essential Medicare topics for current enrollees and those approaching eligibility. Since launching in 2023, Medicare Mondays have helped hundreds better understand their Medicare options.

The series is hosted by MAP Divisional Director Ray Walker, who brings more than 20 years of healthcare industry experience to each session.

“Medicare is a great program that provides a wealth of healthcare services to older Americans, as well as people on disability,” Walker said. “We want to make sure people have the information they need to be able to access that program and make the most of the healthcare coverage they’ve earned.”

Registration is available at map.oid.ok.gov by clicking the revolving banner. Recorded webinars can be viewed on-demand under the Educational Videos tab and on YouTube.

2026 Medicare Monday Schedule:

  • Welcome to Medicare – Feb. 2
  • What if I Disagree? How To File an Appeal – March 2
  • Keeping on Top of Your Health – April 6
  • Medicare Supplement Plans in Oklahoma – May 4
  • Fraud Prevention and Reporting – June 1
  • Medicare Cost Savings Programs for Low-Income Seniors – July 6
  • How Medicare Covers Prescription Medication – Aug. 3
  • Getting Ready for Open Enrollment – Sept.14
  • Medicare Advantage Plans – Oct. 5
  • Preparing for Future Healthcare Needs – Nov. 2
  • Medicare Changes for 2027 – Dec. 7

MAP provides free, confidential Medicare assistance to Oklahomans. For additional help or information, call 800-763-2828 or visit map.oid.ok.gov.

Oklahoma Homeowners Can Now Access Grants up to $10,000 To Strengthen Homes and Lower Insurance Costs

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For Immediate Release:
January 12, 2026

Oklahoma Homeowners Can Now Access Grants up to $10,000 To Strengthen Homes and Lower Insurance Costs

Oklahoma Homeowners Can Now Access Grants up to $10,000 To Strengthen Homes and Lower Insurance Costs

OKLAHOMA CITY— Oklahoma homeowners statewide now have an opportunity to significantly reduce storm damage risk and lower their insurance costs through a proven state grant program.

The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) will open statewide applications for its Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) Grant Program on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. CT. Eligible homeowners can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to upgrade to storm-resistant FORTIFIED roofs, improvements that can reduce severe storm damage by up to 80 percent while lowering insurance premiums by 20 to 30 percent.

For Oklahoma families who take advantage of this opportunity, the benefits are substantial: pilot program participants are saving an average of $750 per year on insurance premiums. Over ten years, that adds up to $7,500 in savings, while providing peace of mind during one of the nation’s most active storm seasons.

“Oklahoma is one of the most storm-prone states in the country, and strengthening homes is one of the most effective ways to reduce damage and control insurance costs,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “This program is working, and now we’re bringing it to homeowners statewide. The opportunity is here, and homeowners who act now can protect their homes and their budgets for years to come.”

The statewide expansion follows a highly successful pilot phase that helped more than 100 Oklahoma homeowners upgrade their roofs in approved zip codes. Through the pilot program, OID invested more than $1 million in mitigation efforts, demonstrating both strong demand and measurable results for Oklahoma families.

What the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program Offers

The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program offers grants of up to $10,000 to eligible homeowners who wish to upgrade to Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) FORTIFIED Home – Roof standards. These upgrades enhance the resistance of roofs to severe weather, qualifying homeowners for substantial insurance premium discounts.

Deputy Commissioner of External Affairs Ashley Scott emphasized the program’s real-world impact. “The pilot phase proved that Oklahomans want to invest in protecting their homes when the opportunity is available,” Scott said. “With statewide access, even more families can fortify their homes, reduce risk and see real long-term financial benefits.”

Industry leaders say Oklahoma’s approach is setting a strong example for mitigation programs nationwide. “The 100th FORTIFIED designation funded by the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program reflects a thoughtful, homeowner-focused approach to resilience,” said Fred Malik, Managing Director of the FORTIFIED program at IBHS. “By scaling the program carefully, OID has helped ensure strong participation, smooth implementation and lasting benefits for homeowners. We look forward to seeing even more FORTIFIED homes across Oklahoma in 2026.”

How Oklahoma Homeowners Can Take Advantage of the Grant Program

Applications open Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. CT at oid.ok.gov/okready. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis as funding allows, making early preparation essential.

To qualify, homeowners must have a homestead exemption on file with their county assessor. Exemptions can be filed starting in January.

Prepare Now:

  • Verify or establish a homestead exemption with your county assessor (required for eligibility)
  • Review full eligibility requirements at oid.ok.gov/okready
  • Be ready to apply starting Jan. 12 at noon at oid.ok.gov/okready

OID emphasizes that mitigation remains one of the most reliable ways to lower long-term insurance costs. By strengthening homes before storms strike, homeowners who take advantage of this opportunity can reduce damage, avoid costly claims and protect their investment well into the future.

For more information about the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program, visit oid.ok.gov/okready or email okready@oid.ok.gov.

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Oklahoma Insurance Department Shares Guidance After Jan. 8 Storms

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For Immediate Release:
January 9, 2026

Oklahoma Insurance Department Shares Guidance After Jan. 8 Storms

OKLAHOMA CITY— The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is ready to assist Oklahomans affected by the severe storms that impacted the central and eastern portions of the state on Jan. 8.

“As we begin recovery after this severe weather, the Oklahoma Insurance Department is here to help,” said Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “We want everyone affected to know that if you have questions about your policy, need assistance with the claims process, or just aren’t sure where to start, our Consumer Assistance Division is ready to support you every step of the way.”

Anyone impacted by storms can contact OID’s Consumer Assistance division at 800-522-0071 or by visiting oid.ok.gov. Commissioner Mulready also reminds Oklahomans to report damage at damage.ok.gov.

Here are some post-storm tips for victims:

  • Access and document your damage. Take numerous photos or videos of the damage. Don’t throw anything away unless your insurance company tells you to.
  • Make the necessary repairs to prevent further damage. Cover broken windows, holes, leaking roofs and damaged walls. Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement with them on the cost of appropriate repairs. Move undamaged items to a safe location when necessary to prevent theft or additional loss.
  • Have your roof inspected by a trusted roofing contractor. If the damages are below or slightly over your deductible, you will want to pay for the repairs. If they exceed your deductible, turn the claim into your insurance carrier.
  • Contact your insurance company or agent after you have an estimate for repairs. Ask what forms, documents and information you need to provide to process your claim. Remember that replacement cost policies require the work to be completed within six months of the date of loss to receive the replacement cost payments that were withheld.
  • Save all receipts. If you made repairs to your property, save all receipts, including those from the temporary repairs that your insurance policy might cover.
  • Ask about additional living expenses. If your home is damaged to the extent that it is unlivable, ask your insurance provider if you have coverage for living expenses incurred while repairs are being made.

Remember these tips when you’re dealing with contractors to avoid fraud:

  • Always get more than one bid.
  • Check references and phone numbers. The Better Business Bureau collects contractor complaint information. You can contact the Construction Industries Board to verify that the contractor holds a valid license to do business in the state and that they carry liability insurance.
  • Don’t pay upfront, and don’t make your final payment until the job is complete.
  • Avoid contractors who offer to waive your deductible or promise a rebate (It’s against the law!).
  • Never sign a contract with blank spaces; always keep a copy for your records.

If you suspect contractor fraud, contact the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit at 833-681-1895.

You can find more information about preparing for storms and reviewing your insurance coverage at oid.ok.gov/GetReady.

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Economic Indicators Show Oklahoma’s Homeowners Insurance Market Is Competitive

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For Immediate Release:
January 7, 2026

Economic Indicators Show Oklahoma’s Homeowners Insurance Market Is Competitive

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

Public discussion about Oklahoma’s homeowners insurance market has intensified in recent months, with some critics suggesting the market lacks competition.  However, objective, well-established economic tools that are widely accepted by the Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, fellow regulators, and economists show that the Oklahoma homeowners insurance market is competitive. This isn’t determined by rhetoric or perception, and it doesn’t mean that premium costs aren’t rising or invalidate homeowners’ concerns about affordability, which is my top focus along with legislative leaders.

Two of the most commonly used measures of market concentration are the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) and the Four-Firm Concentration Ratio (CR4). These tools provide a clear, data-driven way to assess whether a market is competitive or dominated by a small number of firms.

The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, the primary benchmark for measuring market concentration, uses companies’ market shares to yield a single score. Markets with scores below 1500 are considered unconcentrated and competitive, while those above 2500 are highly concentrated and non-competitive. Oklahoma’s HHI score is 1362, indicating its homeowners insurance market is clearly competitive by this standard. Oklahoma’s score is below this threshold for at least the past five years. The HHI is relied upon by federal entities when evaluating mergers, acquisitions, and potential antitrust concerns.

Less reliable but often cited is the CR4, or Four-Firm Concentration Ratio, that measures the combined market share of the four largest firms in a given market. Scores 0-40% are considered low concentration. Scores 40-70% are considered medium concentration, and scores 70-100% are considered high concentration. Oklahoma’s CR4 score is 60%. Used alongside the HHI, it helps confirm whether competition is robust or limited.

When these objective economic tools are applied to Oklahoma’s homeowners insurance market, they show a market characterized by multiple active insurers and meaningful consumer choice. No single company—or small group of companies—controls an outsized share of the market. By the standards used nationally and internationally, this reflects a competitive marketplace.

Based on previous news stories, it is important for consumers to know these facts. Insurance market competition is not decided by individual opinions, but by transparent, repeatable economic analysis using metrics that are universally recognized by regulatory authorities.

As critical discussions about insurance affordability and availability continue, grounding the conversation in objective economic analysis—rather than speculation—will help ensure policy decisions are informed by facts rather than perception.

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Navigating Power and Technology Breakdowns  

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For Immediate Release:
December 16, 2025

Navigating Power and Technology Breakdowns  

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

In December 2007, Oklahoma experienced one of the most devastating ice storms in its history. The storm caused at least $200 million in damage statewide, and at the peak of the event, more than 641,000 Oklahomans were without power. For thousands, outages lasted more than a week.  

When the lights go out, so do the tools we rely on every day. Without electricity or internet access, simple tasks can become challenging, and in today’s connected world, the impact is even more significant than it was a few decades ago. That’s why I urge Oklahomans to make technology and power disruptions a core part of their disaster preparedness plans. 

 

Keep hard copies of essential documents and cash on hand.  

One of the most important steps you can take is storing hard copies of your essential documents. Your emergency kit should include items such as Social Security cards, passports, birth certificates, driver’s licenses, prescriptions and insurance policies. Keep them in a fire-resistant, waterproof container so you can access vital information during power or internet outages. Be sure to take these documents with you if you must leave your home. Always keep some cash on hand in case payment systems are down and using debit or credit cards becomes impossible.  

 

Create a backup internet plan. 

We depend on the internet for everything from banking and insurance to communication and navigation. Consider having a backup source of connectivity in case your primary internet service goes down. Mobile hotspots or satellite-based options can help you stay connected during outages. It’s also wise to keep printed maps and a list of emergency phone numbers for your family, just in case digital tools aren’t available.  

 

Identify additional power sources.  

Having access to power during an outage can make all the difference. Invest in a generator to keep your home running during prolonged disruptions. Portable power banks are also an affordable way to keep your phone and other small devices charged. Ensure you have a variety of batteries for flashlights, radios, and other essential devices.  

 

Review your insurance policies. 

Preparedness isn’t complete without reviewing your insurance coverage. Your policies should reflect the risks we face in Oklahoma. Be familiar with key coverages such as loss of use, which helps pay for living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to covered damage. Remember: losses from floods or earthquakes typically require separate policies.  

 

Oklahoma’s weather is unavoidable, but preparing for technology and power outages can make recovery faster, safer and less stressful. Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your family in the event of the next major disaster. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) offers numerous resources on insurance and preparedness at oid.ok.gov/getready. If you have insurance questions, call us at 800-522-0071.  

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Oklahoma Insurance Department and Legislators Announce 2026 Legislative Package to Strengthen Consumer Protections and Address Rising Homeowners Insurance Costs

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For Immediate Release:
December 10, 2025

Oklahoma Insurance Department and Legislators Announce 2026 Legislative Package to Strengthen Consumer Protections and Address Rising Homeowners Insurance Costs

 

OKLAHOMA CITY— The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) today announced a comprehensive package of 2026 legislative policy proposals designed to provide Oklahomans with stronger consumer protections, enhanced transparency, and meaningful relief from rising homeowners insurance premiums.

Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready emphasized that the proposals reflect ongoing efforts to collaborate with lawmakers, industry stakeholders, and consumer advocates, with a clear goal: ensure fair treatment, handle claims faster, and improve access to affordable coverage.

“Oklahomans deserve an insurance market that is transparent, responsive, and accountable,” Mulready said. “This package addresses consumer frustrations—including slow claims responses, limited disclosure from insurers, and premium increases—while helping stabilize the state’s insurance market.”

“It has been a challenging few years for Oklahoma policyholders. While we can’t control severe weather or the rising cost of building materials, strengthening property resiliency, pursuing tort reform, and closing administrative loopholes in current law are the right steps forward,” said Rep. Mark Tedford, R-Tulsa. “I applaud the commissioner’s commitment to ensuring policyholders receive prompt and fair treatment before and after a claim. Combined with recent anti-fraud and tort-reform measures, I believe the Legislature has taken meaningful action to put sound prevention and mitigation mechanisms in place for the market.”

“Oklahoma has faced its challenges with significant weather losses, and it has taken its toll on Oklahoma policyholders,” said Sen. Aaron Reinhardt, R-Jenks. “We cannot legislate the weather we face in this state, the losses that occur and the continual rising cost in labor and materials that affect overall claims cost. What we can do is continue to work on tort reform and put guardrails in place to stem the rising cost of litigation. We can also focus on consumer protection measures and ensure that we are holding insurance companies accountable and expediting the claims process and any issues that may arise. I am pleased to see the steps taken by the Insurance Commissioner and his team to address these areas. I look forward to working with him and the legislature to continue our efforts to protect Oklahomans and work to stem the rising costs of insurance here in the state.”

Key Components of the 2026 Legislative Package

Faster Response and Claims Handling

  • Shortened Response Deadlines for Complaints:
    • Insurers must respond to OID consumer complaint inquiries within 14 days (reduced from 20 days).
    • Insurers must respond to insureds’ claims questions or information requests within 14 days (reduced from 30 days).
  • Faster Claim Acknowledgment & Estimates:
    • Insurers must acknowledge the filing of a claim within 14 days (reduced from 30 days).
    • Once an adjuster’s estimate is generated, a detailed estimate must be provided to the policyholder within 7 days.
  • Quicker Claim Decisions:
    • Claim acceptance or denial required within 30 days (reduced from 60 days).
    • Final claim resolution deadline reduced from 120 days to 90 days.
    • Allows interest at 10% on untimely payments, mirroring Life & Health statutes.

Strengthening Consumer Rights

  • Homeowner Bill of Rights:
    • Establishes, in statute, a clear set of rights and timelines for homeowners during the claims process, along with guidance on what steps consumers should take when filing a claim.
  • Mandatory FORTIFIED Roof Discounts:
    • Requires insurers to offer a discount for homes built or retrofitted to IBHS FORTIFIED standards, helping homeowners’ lower premiums through proven risk-mitigation upgrades.
  • Protection from Aerial Imaging Misuse:
    • Prohibits insurers from denying claims, refusing coverage, non-renewing policies, or reducing coverage based solely on aerial images.
  • Roof Age Fairness Requirements:
    • Insurers may not non-renew, refuse to issue, or reduce coverage solely because a roof is 15 years or older.
    • Homeowners may obtain an independent inspection (at their own cost) to appeal roof-age determinations.
    • Insurers may not deny or non-renew solely due to roof age if an authorized inspection confirms at least 5 years of useful life remaining.
  • Clarified Building Code Requirements:
    • Updates statutory language to ensure insurers must provide coverage consistent with applicable building codes, whether local municipalities enforce those codes.

Improved Market Transparency & Data Reporting

  • Quarterly P&C Market Stability Statements:
    • Requires insurers to submit quarterly reports—similar to data calls—on non-renewals, market withdrawals, written premium, and other key indicators affecting consumers and the state’s insurance market.
  • Motor Vehicle Lookback Period Fix:
    • Closes a loophole allowing entities outside the Department of Public Safety to use motor vehicle violation data beyond the legal 3-year lookback period.

Mediation & Dispute Resolution Enhancements

  • Mandatory Eagle Mediation Availability:
    • Applies to residential, commercial-residential, and auto claims.
    • May be requested by policyholders, first-party claimants, third-party claimants, or assignees.
    • Available only after consumers complete the OID complaint process.
    • Not allowed once civil litigation begins.
    • Establishes penalties for insurers who fail to comply with mediation requirements.
    • Mediation limits costly legal expenses passed on to consumers.

Legal Reform

  • Attorney Fees:
    • Legislation would codify that attorney fees may not be awarded to either party.
    • This will help disincentivize frivolous lawsuits, reduce litigation costs, and further stabilize the market. As the lawsuits increase the costs of claims, insurers then raise rates to transfer those costs to Oklahoma policyholders.

Moving Oklahoma Forward

Commissioner Mulready stated that the purpose of the 2026 legislative package is not only to give homeowners greater peace of mind but also to support a stable and competitive insurance market.

“These reforms make Oklahoma a leader in consumer-focused insurance regulation,” the Commissioner said. “We have seen positive results of similar legislation around the country and by strengthening timelines, improving communication, expanding mediation options, and requiring fair treatment, we are helping Oklahomans recover faster and maintain access to coverage they can depend on.”

Next Steps

The Oklahoma Insurance Department will work closely with legislators during the 2026 legislative session, which begins in February, to advance these proposals. Additional consumer education will be conducted to inform Oklahomans about their evolving rights and protections.

Oklahoma Insurance Department Receives 5-year Accreditation Renewal

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For Immediate Release:
December 9, 2025

Oklahoma Insurance Department Receives 5-year Accreditation Renewal

 

OKLAHOMA CITY— Commissioner Glen Mulready announced today that the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) received its accreditation renewal from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) at its Fall 2025 National Meeting in Hollywood, Florida.

Commissioner Mulready and the financial regulation team led by Andy Schallhorn view accreditation by the NAIC as a vital part of our commitment to Oklahoma’s citizens. Accreditation standards enable OID to provide expanded consumer protections and institute and maintain the highest standards in financial regulation. The accreditation review is repeated every five years to confirm that the Oklahoma Insurance Department meets all requirements.

“Accreditation from the NAIC reflects the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s commitment to excellence, transparency and strong financial regulation,” said Commissioner Mulready. “Our OID team is the very best and this rigorous process validates the important work they do every day to ensure we meet the highest standards for oversight and consumer protection. Oklahomans can be confident that their insurance market is regulated with integrity, accountability and professionalism.”

All state insurance departments are accredited by the NAIC. To achieve this accreditation, the department must meet stringent national standards that effectively monitor insurance company solvency. The accreditation process involves an extensive evaluation by the NAIC accreditation team that reviews data and procedural documents and interviews the financial team members performing the analysis. OID will have its next full review in 2030.

If you have questions about other insurance issues, please contact the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 800-522-0071 or visit our website at www.oid.ok.gov.

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program Completes 100th Home

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For Immediate Release:
December 8, 2025

Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Grant Program Completes 100th Home

Oklahoma Insurance Department Gaining Momentum On Mitigation Efforts

OKLAHOMA CITY— The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) today announced the completion of the 100th home through its OKReady, Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (SOH) Program, a significant achievement in the state’s ongoing efforts to build stronger, safer, and more resilient communities and save homeowners money.

“These first 100 projects represent real progress in helping Oklahomans protect their homes and reduce insurance costs,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready. “As one of the most storm-prone states in the country, it’s vital that we continue investing in resilience. We are incredibly proud of this program and excited to expand it statewide next year.”

To date, OID has dispersed $1 million to Oklahoma homeowners who successfully completed eligible FORTIFIED roof projects. Each participating homeowner received up to $10,000 in grant funds to upgrade their homes to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) FORTIFIED Home – Roof™ standards. These improvements help better protect properties against Oklahoma’s frequent wind and hail events. Homeowners who complete FORTIFIED upgrades are already seeing the benefits. On average, Oklahomans who participated in the program are saving around $750 per year through insurance premium discounts available after FORTIFIED certification.

The SOH Program launched in March and is nearing completion of its third consecutive pilot phase in select ZIP codes across Oklahoma. The program will open up grant applications to homeowners statewide in early 2026.

“With the expansion of the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes Program, we look forward to helping even more families fortify their homes, save money and improve their long-term resilience,” said Ashley Scott, Deputy Commissioner of External Affairs and director of OKReady.

“The 100th FORTIFIED designation funded by the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program is a testament to the hard work the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has put into building a user‑friendly program that helps families reduce their risk of storm damage,” said Fred Malik, Managing Director of the FORTIFIED program at IBHS. “By taking an incremental approach to implementation, OID is allowing the market to grow alongside homeowner demand while ensuring a smooth process for everyone involved. IBHS is encouraged to see more Oklahomans benefit from homes built to a standard proven to better withstand severe weather, and we look forward to even more FORTIFIED homes in 2026 as the program continues to expand.”

Homeowners interested in learning more about the program, eligibility requirements or the ongoing pilot phase can visit oid.ok.gov/okready. If you have questions about the SOH Program or the application process, please email the team at okready@oid.ok.gov.

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221

Insurance Commissioner Issues Statement About State Farm Lawsuit

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For Immediate Release:
December 8, 2025

Insurance Commissioner Issues Statement About State Farm Lawsuit

 

OKLAHOMA CITY— Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready issued the following statement about Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s motion to intervene in a lawsuit against State Farm:

“There have been several inquiries to OID regarding Attorney General Drummond’s intervening in a lawsuit with State Farm. Although our agency is not involved in this private lawsuit, we regularly conduct investigations into the market conduct of the companies we regulate. We have been engaged in an ongoing investigation for the past two years now regarding the handling of roof claims. There are strict confidentiality laws surrounding these investigations. Market conduct investigations can take considerable time to complete because we follow rigorous national guidelines to ensure we have fully and thoroughly investigated an insurer’s claim practices. To our knowledge, we are the first Insurance Department in the country to take the unprecedented step of sending out third-party engineers to inspect the insurance adjusters’ work. I recognize the importance of these roofing claims and the impact they have on consumers. I firmly believe it is too important to NOT take these extra steps to ensure Oklahomans are protected.”

“We expect to have this investigation concluded in the first quarter of 2026. We are fully committed to transparency. Any action taken will of course become public information.”

Media questions or comments should be directed to
Chief of Communications, Liz Heigle
Liz.Heigle@oid.ok.gov | (405) 819-2221