We have made it through week two of session, and we are off to a great start. I had the opportunity to pass two bills through committee this week including SB 1422, which creates the Industrial Hemp Task Force and passed out of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. Also, SB 1209 regarding Honorary Consul Vanity Plates, passed out of the Aeronautics and Transportation Committee and was then approved on the Senate Floor. SB 1209 is now headed to the House for consideration. SB 1422 will establish a task force to research and development of Industrial Hemp growth and production in Oklahoma. SB 1209 eliminates honorary consul license plates from Oklahoma’s license plate choices and will protect the American public, assist law enforcement, and prevent abuse by U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents who have been appointed as honorary consul by a foreign government.

Also, I attended the Blackwell Chamber of Commerce awards celebration and the Blackwell Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues breakfast, where Representative Pfeiffer and I provided legislative updates. I also attended the Executive Leadership Council at Autry’s Technology Center and the Mayor and City of Enid Commissioner’s meeting for legislative updates.

We have had an active week of session, committee meetings, and visiting constituents. Among those visiting with me include the Cherokee Strip Museum and Leonardo’s Children’s Museum. We also visited with the Enid ABATE motorcycle group, which fights discriminatory legislation aimed at the motorcycle community.

The governor’s special session is still ongoing while we are in regular session. As you remember, the governor is asking for a state income tax cut, which is being considered. Alternate tax incentives such as a grocery tax are being considered during regular session. To be fair, considering any tax cut is premature until we have the official numbers of the State’s revenue.

On Thursday, the Board of Equalization released their report projecting increased revenue for FY 2025 sparking debate among House and Senate leaders on the accuracy of the projections and its impact on the budget process. Now that we know the most recent figures, I believe cutting the state portion of the grocery tax will offset the most tax relief for Oklahoma families. Stay tuned for future information as decisions are made.

I will keep you updated as critical legislation makes its way through the legislative process. I am anticipating more of my legislation to be heard in committees and then on the Senate floor in the next few weeks.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns on legislative matters. You can reach my office at 405-521-5630 or [email protected].