Sen. Griffin sworn in, continues legislative service

Sen. AJ Griffin has been sworn in as a member of the 55^th Legislature.  Facing no other candidates in the November election, Griffin, R-Guthrie, was automatically re-elected to the District 20 seat by a decisive margin after winning the Republican Primary in June.  Griffin’s friends and family looked on as she took the oath of office during a ceremony at the Capitol on Tuesday.

“I am passionate about being a strong voice for the people of District 20 in the Oklahoma Senate,” Griffin said.  “It is an honor and a privilege to be able to continue that service and work with my friends and colleagues to create jobs, strengthen our families, and build a more prosperous future for all our citizens.”

Although this marks Griffin’s first full four-year term in the Senate, she is already a seasoned veteran, having served for nearly three years after winning a special election for the District 20 seat.  Griffin soon became a member of leadership and was named vice-chair of the Senate Republican Caucus.  She also serves as chair of the Rules Committee, where some of the most complex public policy bills are frequently assigned.

Griffin has successfully passed several key pieces of legislation, including bills to better protect victims of domestic abuse, legislation to help fight prescription drug abuse, and measures to streamline government.

Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman said he was extremely pleased that Griffin was returning to the chamber for another term.

“Senator Griffin has been an important part of our caucus as we worked to create an agenda that would move Oklahoma forward.  Thanks to her efforts, we’ve built an excellent foundation, giving us the opportunity to accomplish even more on behalf of the citizens of our state in the next four years,” said Bingman, R-Sapulpa.

The Senate will hold a one day organizational meeting on January 6, and the 2015 session will resume on February 2.