It is higher education season at the state Capitol. I was honored to welcome students and administrators from Oklahoma State University and Langston University in recent weeks. On April 16, the House and Senate warmly welcomed OSU President Dr. Jim Hess, Alumni Association President Dr. Ann Caine, Pistol Pete and hundreds of students and alumni to the Capitol. Both chambers honored OSU for its commitment to education and its role in driving economic growth across the state. OSU Day is one of my favorite Capitol events each year.
I also attended one of the Boys from Oklahoma concerts at Boone Pickens Stadium, and it was an unforgettable experience. Hats off to OSU for organizing such a phenomenal concert series that brought hundreds of thousands of fans to Stillwater. I’m also thrilled the shows were a boon for local businesses. A big thanks to Mayor Will Joyce and all the public servants who helped coordinate the logistics and manage the crowds.
On April 22, Langston University students, administrators, and alumni came together to celebrate the inaugural Langston Day at the State Capitol. I introduced Langston President Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson, Student Government Association President Myles Lowery, and National Alumni Association President Dezz Lewis to the full Senate. As Oklahoma’s only Historically Black College or University, Langston plays an important and unique role in Oklahoma’s history. I was honored to pay tribute to Langston’s legacy and the university’s continuing contributions to this state. On that same day, I also welcomed Leadership Guthrie to the Capitol, where I discussed the legislative process and recognized them on the Senate floor.
With the 50th anniversary of Eskimo Joe’s approaching, the Legislature recently recognized Stillwater’s Jumpin’ Little Juke Joint at the Capitol and celebrated the restaurant’s lasting impact on the Stillwater community. It was a pleasure to welcome founder Stan Clark. Meanwhile, renowned mascots Joe and Buffy brought laughter and smiles to the celebration, delighting everyone they encountered.
Two years ago, the Legislature created a groundbreaking tax credit program that provides financial support to Oklahomans who serve as caregivers for an aging family member. This tax credit was the first of its kind in the nation. I’m pleased to see Congress considering legislation that mirrors Oklahoma’s Caring for Caregivers Act. I recently passed a Senate resolution asking our federal delegation to support this legislation that eases the financial strain on family caregivers.
Lastly, as we enter the final month of the legislative session, I’m actively working with my colleagues in the House to build a responsible state budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Both chambers are focused on balancing fiscal responsibility with meaningful tax relief for Oklahomans. I recently supported legislation to adjust the state’s tax brackets, increase the standard deduction and impose triggers to gradually eliminate state income taxes. This bill is part of broader efforts to simplify Oklahoma’s tax code while letting taxpayers keep more of their hard-earned money. Discussions about this bill and other tax reform proposals will continue in the coming weeks.
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 [email protected].
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