I feel like collateral damage in a war zone!
I recently received an encouraging email that brought back memories from my time as a city councilman. This email came from a group that petitioned…
Politics
New law will close loophole on zone of safety protecting kids from sex offenders
Calling it a victory for Oklahoma children in rural communities, State Sen. AJ Griffin said she was pleased that Gov. Mary Fallin had signed legislation…
Logan County tax reform to go into law
Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin has signed the proposal to reform county government election law. House Bill 1400, proposed by State Representative Jason Murphey and State…
Never, ever retaliate
In the middle of April 2014, I finished my work for the day at the House of Representatives and drove to the Cedar Ridge neighborhood…
Senate Minutes: There’s a lot to consider
When we talk about the issues that come before us at the state Capitol, there’s a lot to consider. What kind of input have I…
The difference between state government debt and your home mortgage
As we near the end of the legislative session, the Legislature will be presented with last minute, late session emergencies in order to compel legislators…
New law makes county assessors more transparent when lowering assessment ratios
Beginning Nov.1, county assessors in Oklahoma will need to follow protocol when it comes to decreasing the percentage of real or personal property. Gov. Mary Fallin…
Oklahoma earthquakes are uncovering an academic conflict of interest
Oklahoma policy makers must come to terms with an evolving conflict of interest. This conflict has been exposed by events that just a few years…
A powerful new tool for holding government accountable
A few weeks ago, in her State of the State speech, Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin spent a considerable amount of time describing what I believe…
Senate Minutes with AJ Griffin: Oil prices impacting energy states
I believe one of the most basic traits shared by Oklahomans is resilience. Throughout this state’s history, we have been faced with tremendous challenges which…
Massive reduction in the scope of State government
Over the past several years, if you have been in attendance while I spoke at the various civic groups and town hall meetings, you have…
How to get through to your elected officials
It’s that time in the legislative year when the first series of consequential decisions are being made. Lawmakers are receiving thousands of emails from Oklahomans…
County commissioner requests EMS board member to resign; EMS audit discussed
All parties with the Logan County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) and the Logan County Emergency Medical Services District (EMS) agreed the 2009-13 EMS audit…
Lt. Governor stops by Guthrie for 77 towns in 77 days state-wide tour
Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb visited Guthrie as part of his 77 counties in 77 days tour on Friday morning.
Senate Minutes with Senator AJ Griffin: Ensuring a clear definition
Much of my professional career has involved working with nonprofits aimed at improving the lives of Oklahoma children and families. I’ve seen first-hand what can…
House Bill 1407 would add stipulations to county assessors when lowering real or personal property
A bill was introduced to the Oklahoma 55th Legislature earlier this month that would add stipulations on county assessors when it comes to decreasing the percentage of…
County Assessor Tisha Hampton asks for new member on excise board
Before the Logan County Commissioners addressed the agenda concerning the Excise/Equalization board in their latest meeting, County Assessor Tisha Hampton read from a prepared statement…
Legislative cost cutting initiative now approaching 100 Million
Oklahoma’s information technology unification initiative has saved state agencies nearly 100 million dollars in cost savings and cost avoidance.
The real story of how a bill becomes law
This week state representatives will cast their first floor votes of the new legislative year. The floor vote represents an important step in the process…
Marven Goodman: District 1 weekly activity update
We have started the repair of two guardrail safety systems, completed the rails on Broadway between Simpson & Simpson Lane and moving next to the…