Governor Stitt Pushes Court to Expedite Tyson Case

Governor Pushes for Quicker Court Resolution

OKLAHOMA CITY — Governor Kevin Stitt wants faster movement in the state’s long-running court case against Tyson Foods over poultry waste pollution in eastern Oklahoma.

He filed a motion in Tulsa federal court asking for an expedited process, arguing that years of legal delays are hurting Oklahoma’s agricultural economy.

“It’s time to restore certainty,” Stitt said. “We’re defending Oklahoma jobs and securing a reliable food supply.”

Balancing Environmental and Economic Goals

The governor said the case has dragged on too long, threatening both farmers and business stability. His filing asks the court to establish a new framework that protects the environment and agricultural producers at the same time.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who leads the case, has taken a different approach, focusing on strict environmental accountability. The two leaders have publicly disagreed over how best to resolve the issue.

Long Legal Battle Nears a Turning Point

The lawsuit, State of Oklahoma v. Tyson Foods, Inc., has been in litigation for years over pollution in the Illinois River watershed.

Earlier this year, both sides submitted proposed final judgments but failed to reach agreement. Stitt’s motion calls for an accelerated review to protect both landowners and businesses across the state’s protein supply chain.

The filing also notes concerns about court recommendations that could “upend farming and ranching in Eastern Oklahoma.” Stitt said his goal is to ensure a common-sense solution that defends both economic opportunity and environmental stewardship.

📌 MORE OKLAHOMA NEWS