Rep. Duel: Recognizing our youth

This past week at the Capitol, we welcomed several groups of students and the educators and leaders who are investing in this next generation of Oklahoma’s workforce and civic leadership.

On Wednesday, Feb. 18, FFA students and Scouts from across the state were recognized in the House. On Thursday, Feb. 19, members of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America visited.

Organizations like these are vital to the strength of our state. They instill leadership, personal responsibility, work ethic and service. These are values that prepare young people not just for careers, but for productive citizenship.

Also this week, the governor and several legislative leaders announced the kickoff of the OK250 initiative. This initiative will help Oklahomans commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding and the enduring principles of liberty and self-government that define America. Educational programs and student activities are being planned to honor our nation’s founding, celebrate the sacrifices that secured our freedom and remind the next generation why America remains the greatest nation on earth. More information about Oklahoma’s celebration and national events can be found on the Department of Tourism’s website: TravelOK.com – Oklahoma’s Official Travel & Tourism Site.

Legislatively, our first major committee deadline has now passed. All bills had to be advanced from a policy committee by Feb. 19 to stay active this year. Over the next few weeks, oversight committees will be meeting, and we’ll hear more bills presented on the House floor.

During the past week, I passed several bills out of policy committees. These include:

House Bill 3497 would clarify when the state can appeal a pretrial order.

House Bill 3502 is a parental rights and child welfare bill that would ensure no parent or prospective adoptive parent can be labeled abusive, neglectful or disqualified for adoption simply for raising or referring to a child consistent with the child’s biological sex. We have seen parents in other states penalized for affirming basic biological reality. This legislation ensures Oklahoma protects parental rights and common-sense standards while helping more children find stable, loving homes.

House Bill 3505 would modernize and standardize Oklahoma’s wage garnishment process in hopes of standardizing this across the state and the country. Current inconsistencies make enforcement difficult, especially across state lines, and create unnecessary burdens for businesses and workers alike.

As always, it is an honor to serve you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me at (405) 557-7350 or collin.duel@okhouse.gov if I can ever be of service to you.