Oklahoma Lawmaker Applauds Passage of SECURE Act

Hilbert says new law protects taxpayers from subsidizing benefits for undocumented immigrants

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Oklahoma state representative John Hilbert has voiced his support for the recently passed SECURE Act, which he says will prevent taxpayers from being forced to subsidize benefits for individuals who are in the country illegally.

Why it matters

The SECURE Act has been a controversial piece of legislation, with proponents arguing it protects American workers and taxpayers, while critics claim it unfairly targets undocumented immigrants. Hilbert's comments reflect the ongoing political debate around immigration policy in Oklahoma.

The details

The SECURE Act, which stands for 'Strengthening and Enhancing Comprehensive Understanding of Resources for Employees', was passed by the Oklahoma state legislature earlier this year. The law aims to restrict access to certain state-funded public benefits for individuals who cannot prove legal residency status.

  • The SECURE Act was passed by the Oklahoma state legislature in February 2026.

The players

John Hilbert

An Oklahoma state representative who has voiced his support for the SECURE Act.

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What they’re saying

“'Oklahoma taxpayers should never be forced to subsidize benefits for individuals who are in our country illegally,'”

— John Hilbert, Oklahoma State Representative (Sapulpa Daily Herald)

The takeaway

The passage of the SECURE Act in Oklahoma reflects the ongoing political debate around immigration policy, with proponents arguing it protects taxpayers while critics claim it unfairly targets undocumented immigrants.