As the Legislature adjourned Thursday, officially concluding the second session of the 60th Legislature, House members wrapped up months of work focused on delivering practical results for Oklahoma families and rural communities. During the final days of session, we worked long hours to finish legislation, finalize the state budget and send bills to the governor’s desk.
This session, we advanced several important education measures aimed at getting back to the basics in the classroom. House Bill 1276 makes the successful “Bell to Bell, No Cell” policy permanent, helping reduce distractions and keep students focused during the school day. We also approved House Bill 2288 to help address teacher shortages by allowing experienced retired teachers to return to the classroom sooner while still receiving their earned retirement benefits.
We also worked to strengthen access to healthcare, especially in rural areas where staffing shortages can create real challenges for families. House Bill 3934 expands responsibilities for dental assistants and hygienists to help improve access to care, while House Bill 4275 helps behavioral health case managers and peer recovery specialists maintain certifications while serving in local government roles. These are practical steps that help support healthcare services in communities that need them most.
Public safety also remained a major focus this year. One important measure, Senate Bill 1636, establishes clearer procedures for reviewing violent crime cold cases so law enforcement can continue pursuing justice for victims and families even years after crimes occur.
I was also proud to serve as House author of Senate Bill 1944, which was signed into law by the governor this week. The measure updates Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation law by adjusting payroll thresholds for certain agricultural employers, helping modernize the system while continuing to support Oklahoma’s agricultural community.
As session comes to a close, I remain committed to standing up for rural Oklahoma values and making sure our communities continue to have a strong voice at the Capitol. It is an honor serving House District 35, and I appreciate everyone who reached out this session with questions and concerns. Please continue reaching out if I can ever help in any way. Serving our communities is why I’m here.