Coalition seeks nationwide moratorium on data centers

A coalition of more than 230 environmental organizations has called for a national moratorium on new data centers, escalating a growing backlash against the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure and its strain on energy, water, and climate systems.

Cameron University launches new job board

Cameron University has initiated a partnership with Handshake, a career platform where employers can connect with and recruit college students and alumni.

AEP seeks approval for electric substation in Stephens County

Southwest LedgerDUNCAN - As AEP Oklahoma Transmission Co. advances construction of a $260 million transmission project across southern Oklahoma, the utility has asked state regulators for approval to build a new electrical substation in Stephens County to support a solar array.

Kansas City Federal survey indicates oil/gas drilling lowest level in 5 years

A new Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank survey found that energy activity in Oklahoma and other states that comprise the district took a sharp drop in the fourth quarter and circumstances are not likely to improve in the next six months.

State Supreme Court shoots down 2025 TSET law

OKLAHOMA CITY - A law passed in 2025 - and that gave state lawmakers more control over the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust - was shot down Tuesday by the Oklahoma Supreme Court.

Rig Report: National oil, gas rig numbers see little change, but remain strong in Oklahoma

Oklahoma held steady for another week in its oil and gas rig activity, according to the latest Baker Hughes Rig Count released Friday. The state’s total remained at 43 active rigs, which was the same number reported a year ago.Nationally, there was a decrease of one, leaving the total of 543.

Bill filed to improve safety in school zones along state highways

OKLAHOMA CITY - Rep. Chris Banning, R Bixby, has introduced legislation aimed at improving safety for students who travel to and from school along high speed state highways.

Cost of water line project reduced by $465,000

The price tag for a recently completed northwest Lawton water line replacement project was shaved by nearly half a million dollars.The City Council accepted a job that entailed “rehabilitation” of approximately 32,000 linear feet (six miles) of 8-inch to 12-inch water lines.

New Mexico sues oil firms over abandoned well cleanup costs

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed a lawsuit intended to force oil and gas operators to pay for cleanup and plugging of aging wells, accusing a group of executives and companies of deliberately shifting environmental liabilities onto the state.

Energy/Business Briefs

• The Trump administration filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn California’s law banning new oil and gas wells near homes, schools, hospitals, and parks, claiming it violates federal law and hampers energy development.