By Brook A. Simmons

In a political climate where common sense often takes a back seat to soundbites, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a rare and welcome return to reality for U.S. energy strategy. It recognizes a simple truth that Oklahomans have known for generations: oil and natural gas aren’t relics of the past, they’re the bedrock of our economy and the backbone of American energy security.

This legislation delivers in a big way for the men and women who power our industry. It repeals punitive policies that punished investment and undermined production, while restoring proven tax provisions that allow our producers to reinvest in Oklahoma’s economy. Chief among them is the restoration of the ability to deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses, a cornerstone of sound tax policy that has enabled independent producers of every size to drill wells, grow payrolls, and expand operations across historic oil and natural gas fields in every corner of our state.

For his unwavering leadership in protecting the deductibility of so-called intangible drilling costs (things like mud, fuel, hauling, office supplies) and championing the priorities of Oklahoma’s energy producers, we extend our sincere thanks to U.S. Sen. James Lankford. At every stage, Sen. Lankford has been a vocal advocate for rational, pro-growth policy.

We also want to recognize and thank the entire Oklahoma Congressional Delegation for supporting this legislation and working behind the scenes to make H.R. 1 the best possible legislation that could pass Congress. Their votes were not just in favor of a bill; they were in support of Oklahoma jobs, Oklahoma families, and an energy future built right here at home.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act helps ensure Oklahoma’s oil and natural gas industry can keep doing what it does best: finding energy, developing resources responsibly, and powering America’s economy.

— Brook A. Simmons is president of The Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma.