We’re onto the final countdown for this year’s legislative session. Only about two weeks remain before we are constitutionally required to adjourn sine die, which means we’ll end our legislative business with no set date to resume for the year.

To finish off the remaining two weeks, we’ll begin voting on appropriations bills that create the 2023 Fiscal Year budget as well as approve amendments to Senate bills that were modified in the House of Representatives. Sometimes, we don’t agree with the changes that were made in the opposite chamber, so those measures go to conference committee. This allows both sides to work on the legislation until an agreement can be made on the final language. We’ll also continue voting on the measures that went to conference.

We’ve also taken the time over the last week to recognize some of our colleagues that will not be returning to the Senate due to term limits. In 1990, the people of Oklahoma took to the ballot box and approved State Question 632, which imposed a 12-year term limit for a member of the Legislature, meaning a senator can only serve three full terms. We honored Sen. Kim David of Porter and Sen. Mark Allen of Spiro with a special recognition for their 12 years of service last week.

Sen. David has had a historic tenure during her time in the Senate, being the first Republican woman to serve as Senate Majority Whip, the first woman in state history to serve as Senate Appropriations Chairman and the first woman since statehood to be named the Senate Majority Floor Leader. During her impressive time of service, she’s focused on legislation to improve the lives and benefits for members of the Oklahoma National Guard, military, veterans and law enforcement.

Sen. Allen worked tirelessly during his full term to protect our fossil fuels, focusing on legislation supporting oil, gas, coal and the energy industry as a whole. He’s also an avid supporter of our state’s wildlife industry and led Oklahoma’s Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus to advocate for legislation that protects and advances hunting, fishing, recreational shooting and trapping. Both of my colleagues and their experience and wisdom will be missed here in the Senate.

We also welcomed Edmond resident Rick Dawson to the Senate floor. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he is the owner of Rich Strike, the amazing thoroughbred horse who against all odds won the Kentucky Derby. Rich Strike wasn’t even supposed to run in the race, but after a last-minute drop out, he was able to compete. Rick and Rich’s story is one of faith, perseverance and triumph. What an amazing win – I know I’ll be cheering on this dynamic duo in the next race.

It’s an honor to represent our conservative values here at our state Capitol. Please feel free to reach out if there is anything I can help you with. You can contact me at 405-521-5630 or via email at [email protected].