Senate Minutes with Senator Chuck Hall

At the Capitol, we are continuing to gear up for the 2020 legislative session, which begins February 3.  The Senate’s appropriations subcommittees are holding hearings with state agencies to give us more information in preparation for the work ahead.  We’ll have a better idea of what to expect when the State Board of Equalization meets December 19 to give us the preliminary certification of the revenue available for the 2021 fiscal budget.

December 13 marks the deadline for members to request legislation.  Legislators then have until January 16 to file those bills.  I am currently working with staff on proposed legislation on a host of topics, including county road and bridge funding, changes to our tax code and eliminating unused, out-of-date or burdensome rules that remain on the books.

I’m also looking forward to celebrating the Christmas season with friends and family here in the district.  On December 6, several of my fellow senators and their spouses will be joining me for dinner and an evening at the historic Pollard Theater to see their production of “It’s a Wonderful Life.”  I’m excited to welcome them to our state’s first capital for this yuletide tradition.

I want to mention that there are wonderful Christmas celebrations slated in communities throughout District 20, and I urge you to get out, support these events and make some lasting holiday memories.

Pawnee’s Festival of Lights slated it’s kick off parade and events for November 30, and the lights will continue to be on display throughout December. Cashion also scheduled their Christmas parade and tree lighting for November 30.  Crescent will hold their annual Christmas parade on December 7. In Hennessey, their annual Christmas parade and Mistletoe Magic will be held on December 12.   Perry will also have their Christmas parade on December 12.  The annual Christmas in Cleveland parade is scheduled for December 14. 

To find out more information about any of these or other events in your area, please contact the local Chamber of Commerce, City Hall or Main Street organization for each of these communities.

I think one of the wonderful things about the Christmas season is how cities and towns come together, and churches, local organizations, charities and individuals step up efforts to care for those in greatest need.  It’s because Christmas is the season of giving—it’s the time when we pause to remember and give thanks that God loved the world so much that he sent his only Son to be our Redeemer and King.  This is the greatest gift the world has ever seen, and the true reason for the season.

From my family to yours, I wish you all a Merry Christmas.

Thank you for the privilege of allowing me to be your voice in the Oklahoma Senate.  Please feel free to contact my Capitol office with any questions or concerns you may have about legislation or other issues impacting our state at 405.521.5628 or at chuck.hall@oksenate.gov.