Pro Tem Paxton Urges Further Negotiations on Poultry Industry in Eastern Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY - After a visit to eastern Oklahoma Thursday to meet with individuals involved in the poultry industry and other local stakeholders, Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, is calling on those involved in the State of Oklahoma v. Tyson Foods case to return to the negotiating table and work toward a resolution.

The lawsuit accused several poultry companies of polluting the Illinois River Watershed in eastern Oklahoma with phosphorus from chicken waste spread on fields as fertilizer, causing environmental harm. In 2023, a federal judge ruled in the state’s favor but ordered both sides to negotiate damages.

Negotiations have now stalled, prompting reports that several major companies, key economic drivers for the region, are evaluating potential changes to their operations in Oklahoma.

“On its current trajectory, this 20-year-old lawsuit is going to cause immeasurable harm to eastern Oklahoma,” Pro Tem Paxton said. “I met with dozens of Oklahomans who stand to lose generational farming operations and face insurmountable debt if a successful resolution isn’t reached. It is heartbreaking to hear their stories and look them in the eye as they face the possibility of losing everything. I am committed to doing everything possible to collaborate with everyone involved to ensure a solution. In the near term, I strongly encourage all parties to come to the area, see firsthand the impact these decisions will have, speak with the families affected and find a path forward that allows them to continue their way of life.

“I appreciate Senator Tom Woods, Representative David Hardin, Representative Josh West and everyone else for hosting me and my team and showing us the reality of what the potential impact looks like. There must be a solution, but it requires everyone involved to come to the table and do what is best for the state of Oklahoma.”

Senator Tom Woods, R-Westville, said he was grateful for Pro Tem Paxton’s engagement.

“I appreciate Pro Tem Paxton for taking the time to come to our districts in eastern Oklahoma to hear directly from my friends and neighbors whose livelihoods are tied to this issue,” Sen. Woods said. “Speaking as a farmer myself, we are the best stewards of land, water and the environment. This case has the potential to reshape our local economy for generations. His willingness to see the situation firsthand and help push for productive negotiations means a great deal to the families who are living with this uncertainty every day.”

Representative David Hardin, R-Stilwell, said the visit underscored the seriousness of the situation.

“Pro Tem Paxton’s visit brought much-needed attention to the scale of what is at stake,” Rep. Hardin said. “If this case isn’t resolved responsibly, it could devastate family farms, small businesses and entire communities. We’re grateful Pro Tem Paxton made the effort to understand the real-world impact and to advocate for a solution that protects both our people and our economy.”

Representative Josh West, R-Grove, said the region is counting on cooperation moving forward.

“It means a lot to our constituents that Pro Tem Paxton came here, listened and saw with his own eyes what could happen if this issue isn’t resolved,” Rep. West said. “Eastern Oklahoma needs certainty. We need a path forward that protects our water, our farms and our jobs. His leadership and support in urging renewed negotiations gives our communities hope at a time when they truly need it.”