Oklahoma lawmakers pass bill to help OKPOP qualify for matching state funds

Lawmakers have passed a bill aimed at helping the Oklahoma Museum of Popular Culture, known as OKPOP, reach an $18 million fundraising goal required to unlock matching tax funds from the state.

The new law allows the museum to count pledges and other donations toward that goal, giving OKPOP an expanded path to secure the funding it needs before the November deadline.

The Numbers

$18 million: The fundraising goal to unlock state matching funds

OKPOP must raise $18 million in private donations to qualify for an equal amount in state tax funds. This goal must be met by November under the terms set by lawmakers.

$9 million: Amount raised

As of April, OKPOP had secured about $9 million in donations, putting the museum halfway toward its goal. The new bill allows additional types of contributions, such as pledges, to count toward the total.

November: Deadline to meet the goal

The museum has until November to hit the $18 million target. If it succeeds, it will unlock $18 million in state matching funds to complete construction and launch operations.

Why This Matters

The bill offers OKPOP more flexibility to count pledges and similar financial commitments toward its fundraising goal. Supporters say the measure could be the difference in helping the museum secure the funds needed to open its doors.

What Comes Next?

The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for approval. If signed into law, museum officials plan to ramp up their fundraising efforts over the coming months, focusing on soliciting new pledges and donations.

If the $18 million target is met by the November deadline, OKPOP will receive the matching state funds to move forward.