In a late-night session, the Oklahoma State Legislature overrode 47 of Governor Kevin Stitt’s vetoes, including one that drew the ire of Native Americans, tribal leaders and families of crime victims.

House Bill 1137, which calls for state funding for the Office of Liaison for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP), was approved unanimously in both the Oklahoma House and Senate on March 13 and April 28, respectively. Stitt vetoed the bill May 5, but his veto was overridden on Thursday, May 29.

The legislature’s actions were praised by Seminole Nation Chief Lewis Johnson, who was among those critical of Stitt’s veto.

“By standing firm in their original support for this bill, lawmakers have sent a clear message: the lives and voices of Indigenous communities matter. This override is more than a legislative act, it is a reflection of the enduring spirit of humanity, a call to justice, and a moral stand for what is right and proper,” Johnson said in a statement. “Voices from Indian Country commend the Legislature for honoring the urgency of this crisis and reaffirming their commitment to protecting vulnerable Indigenous lives. In moments like these, we are reminded that justice is not a convenience, it is a responsibility.”

The bill’s author, Rep. Ron Stewart, D-Tulsa, also celebrated the veto override.

“Today, the Oklahoma Legislature demonstrated its unwavering commitment to justice and accountability by overriding the Governor’s veto of House Bill 1137,” Stewart said. “I am deeply grateful to my colleagues in both chambers– Democrats and Republicans– who stood together to prioritize the safety and dignity of Indigenous communities across our state.

“This vote is more than a legislative victory–it is a moral affirmation that missing and murdered Indigenous persons will not be forgotten or ignored in Oklahoma. I want to especially thank the families, advocates, and tribal leaders who have fought tirelessly to ensure this moment became possible. Your voices were heard,” Stewart said in a news release. “Together, we have sent a clear message: our shared future must be built on respect, equity, and action. The work continues, but today, we took a bold step forward.”

As of January 2024, Oklahoma was number two on the list of Top Ten States for Missing Indigenous Persons, with 86 out of 840 nationally reported MMIP cases, according to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System.