Oklahoma Bill Aims to Allow Cameras in 12 Courtrooms

The Courtroom Transparency Act would livestream select proceedings without court reporters

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A new bill in the Oklahoma state legislature, called the Courtroom Transparency Act, would allow cameras to be installed in 12 courtrooms across the state that do not have court reporters. The goal is to increase public access and transparency, but some court reporters argue it could deter victims from testifying in cases.

Why it matters

The bill is part of a broader debate over balancing public access to court proceedings with protecting the privacy of victims and witnesses. Proponents say it would help the public understand the judicial process, while opponents worry it could make it harder for some to come forward and testify.

The details

The Courtroom Transparency Act would put 12 cameras with livestreaming capabilities in courtrooms that don't have a court reporter. The locations of the cameras have not been determined yet, but the state's Office of the Courts would choose the sites. After a proceeding, the video could be requested or potentially posted online. The 12 cameras are estimated to cost up to $4 million, while outfitting all courtrooms across the state could cost up to $73 million.

  • The Courtroom Transparency Act bill was introduced in the Oklahoma state legislature in 2026.

The players

Christi Gillespie

An Oklahoma state senator who authored the Courtroom Transparency Act bill.

Matt Ballard

A district attorney who supports the bill, saying it would allow the public to see the full court process.

Laura Griffin

A court reporter who opposes the bill, arguing it could deter victims from testifying in cases.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not saying I want all the courtrooms to have live streaming. They just have a capability so that if a judge wants to do live streaming, they can.”

— Christi Gillespie, Oklahoma State Senator (newson6.com)

“They would get the full picture. They'd be able to actually see what we go into court. The victims we fight on behalf of when we're going out, seeking justice, trying to put the bad people in prison.”

— Matt Ballard, District Attorney (newson6.com)

“We're opposed to people's private matters being put on public display and live-streamed. The worst things that happen to people they don't want to, people sitting at home on their couch watching it happen in real time.”

— Laura Griffin, Court Reporter (newson6.com)

What’s next

The Courtroom Transparency Act bill will now move through the Oklahoma state legislature for consideration and a potential vote.

The takeaway

This bill highlights the ongoing debate over balancing public access to the judicial system with protecting the privacy and safety of victims and witnesses. While proponents argue it would increase transparency, opponents worry it could deter people from coming forward and testifying in cases.