Last week at the Capitol, we observed Rose Day. This is a day when hundreds of people gather at the People's House and deliver roses to their state representatives and senators as well as the governor and lieutenant governor. Each rose represents the life of an unborn child and reminds us of how precious these children are.

Rose Day is one of my favorites. It's nice to see those who support life at the Capitol. Our unborn deserve our protection, and I'm thankful that the majority of the Oklahoma Legislature as well as our governor and lieutenant governor support pro-life policies.

We continue to be extremely busy at the Capitol. I presented six bills in committee last week. All passed handily, including my drivers permit bill that would allow 14-year-olds to drive on the farm. This bill passed without objection.

This is the last week of committee work for Appropriation & Budget subcommittees. These committees are the first stop for bills that will have a fiscal impact on state dollars. Once bills pass their subcommittee, they are eligible to be considered in the full A&B Committee. If they pass there, they are eligible to be considered on the House floor. Then they face the same three-step process in the Senate before going to the governor for final consideration.

I've had a number of constituents visit me at the Capitol since session started. Last week, members of the Woodward press were there as were representatives from Northwestern Oklahoma State University who came for Higher Education Day. I've also had a number of high school administrators stop by my office. One of the highlights for me as a lawmaker is having people from home visit me at the Capitol. I like to hear from those I represent, and it's especially nice to have them experience the legislative process.

On a final note, it was a great honor for me to be one of 10 legislators to receive an Oklahoma Farm Bureau Champion Award. The award is presented to state lawmakers who are said to have gone above and beyond in advocating for state farmers and ranchers during the previous legislative session. This is especially meaningful as the nominations come from people in the district I represent.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. You may reach me by email at [email protected], or phone me at 405-557-7339. May God bless you and the State of Oklahoma.