Governor Stitt Establishes Oklahoma Beef Industry Advisory Council, Defending Cattle Producers and Strengthening Oklahoma Beef Market

OKLAHOMA CITY (August 25, 2026) - Governor Kevin Stitt today signed an executive order creating the Oklahoma Beef Industry Advisory Council to prepare for President Donald Trump’s announced executive order to increase imported beef that must be sold below U.S. market rates.

Chaired by Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur, the Council will meet and deliver public recommendations to protect and grow Oklahoma’s beef industry following the federal government’s announced plans to increase imported beef.

“If Washington wants lower prices for Americans, it should focus on free market solutions that remove barriers that drive up cost, not undercut the American ranchers who feed our country,” said Gov. Stitt. “When the government tries to put its thumb on the scale, it ultimately drives up costs for everyone. We will stand with Oklahomans who produce our food and protect our state’s position as a leader in the beef industry.”

Prior to filing the executive order, Governor Stitt held a roundtable discussion with Sec. Arthur and Oklahoma cattle producers. The Governor heard directly from producers about challenges facing the industry and asked for ideas to strengthen Oklahoma’s beef market and support the families who raise cattle.

Watch Governor Stitt and Secretary Arthur’s media message here.

The Council will include leaders with experience in cattle production, beef processing, agricultural economics and market development. Its members will work quickly to identify practical, Oklahoma-led solutions that support the state’s beef industry.

"I can't stress enough how thankful I am to have Governor Stitt's continued dedication to Oklahoma farmers and ranchers," said Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur. "Agriculture is a key driver of the Oklahoma economy, and this council will do everything we can to collaborate with and support current and future generations of the hardworking members of the Oklahoma beef industry."

Oklahoma is home to 4.65 million cattle and calves, including nearly 2 million beef cows, making it one of the nation’s leading cattle-producing states.

The executive order is available here.

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