Senate Review by Senator Todd Gollihare

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(Oklahoma City) - This week, a historic education funding agreement was unveiled at the state Capitol by leaders of the Senate, House and Governor Kevin Stitt, which will provide $625 million in recurring total investment in public education.

This agreement places $500 million directly into the education funding formula and I believe these investments will be instrumental in helping us attract and keep the best and brightest education professionals in our public schools. That investment will cover teacher pay raises of $3,000 for teachers with zero to four years of experience; $4,000 for teachers with five to nine years of experience; $5,000 for teachers with 10 to 15 years of experience; and $6,000 for teachers with 15 or more years of experience.

The agreement, for the first time ever, includes funding for six weeks of paid maternity leave. Again, we want to provide funding that better supports our professional educators and makes Oklahoma schools more attractive for those considering teaching as a profession.

The agreement also includes putting an additional $10 million into a three-year literacy program to employ a literacy instructional team to support school districts. Reading at grade level is essential for success in school and throughout life.  This is an investment in the future of Oklahoma’s children. The agreement also includes $125 million to the Redbud Fund that largely benefits rural schools that don’t have the same ad valorem tax collections as districts. This package also includes an additional $150 million for a three-year pilot program for school safety and security. This will provide each district with a school resource officer, or security upgrades, depending on what is needed. For each year of the program, each public school district will receive approximately $96,000.

We’ll soon be hearing details on other areas of the state budget. As education makes up the lion’s share of state appropriated dollars, reaching consensus on that clears the way for final announcements on the rest of the budget.

Meanwhile, work continues on legislation and executive nominations. I expect floor votes soon giving final confirmation for John Longacre, of Kellyville and Jay Rotert, of Sand Springs. John is the principal of Crown Auto World, RAM , Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep in Bristow and Taft Motors in Sapulpa, and has been nominated by Governor Stitt to serve a fourth term as chair of the Oklahoma Used Motor Vehicle, Dismantler and Manufactured Housing Commission. Jay is a professional educator and spent 15 years in the classroom at Charles Page High School in Sand Springs.  He’s currently serving as the director of the Sand Springs Virtual Academy and as district state testing coordinator. Jay has been nominated to serve as a member of the State Textbook Committee. It is my pleasure to carry both of these nominations forward.

I also wanted to update you on my legislation naming a section of Highway 66 the Army SPC Ryan J. Grady Memorial Highway. Ryan, formerly of Bristow, was a combat engineer in the Vermont National Guard’s Special Troops Battalion, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. He was killed after his vehicle was hit in a roadside bombing near Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. The legislation honoring his life, service and sacrifice is now on its way to the governor for final consideration.

Thank you for allowing me to serve you in the Oklahoma Senate. If you have any questions or concerns about legislation or other issues related to state government, please feel free to contact my office by calling 405-521-5528, or email Todd.Gollihare@oksenate.gov.

Sean Kuehn selected to serve on Oklahoma Student Advisory Council

Sean Kuehn (center) receives the August 2018 Sandite Spirit Award. Kuehn was recently selected to serve on the Oklahoma 2021 Student Advisory Council.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister has named 97 Oklahoma high school students to her 2021 Student Advisory Council, the sixth consecutive year the group has been convened to assist Hofmeister and the Oklahoma State Department of Education in matters of policy. 

“Students have a lot to say about their education, and it is critical that we listen to them. The direct insight we receive from our students is incredibly valuable, and each year I am encouraged by the thoughtful reflection and fearless vision of these brilliant young leaders,” Hofmeister said.  

The 2020 Student Advisory Council last met virtually in June, where students voiced their challenges about learning amid a global pandemic and how racism impacts the classroom experience. Other past discussion topics have included the importance of personal financial literacy, increased awareness of student mental health needs, and how trauma can impede student success. Feedback from the Council has been instrumental in state-level initiatives to provide teachers more professional development in trauma-informed instruction, replace end-of-course high school testing with the ACT or SAT, and pilot Individual Career Academic Planning (ICAP). 

Recommended by their district superintendents, the students hail from across Oklahoma and represent rural, urban and suburban schools of all sizes. Forty-four are returning members who have served on the council in previous years. 

The first virtual meeting of the Student Advisory Council is scheduled for Jan. 26. Sand Springs student Sean Kuehn was selected to serve on the council for the second-straight year.

Has investing become an extreme sport?

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This past weekend my family decided to be a part of a team building event at Extreme Water Sports in Oklahoma City, OK. This is a U.S Olympic and Paralympic training site that allows regular individuals to partake in many adrenaline inducing activities. Whitewater rafting, by far is the most exciting and dangerous activity offered at this facility. I avoid risk by nature and wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting into but figured I could handle it. I was not prepared for what happened next.

After listening to a short and totally inadequate safety speech by our guide, we headed out to conquer the rapids. As the roar of the rapids filled our ears our guide yelled, “We’ll go through this course three times. Do you want to go aggressive now or later?!” The six of us in the raft chose later. At the first spillway I realized I had made a big mistake. The waves smashed into my face as our guide yelled, “Row forward!”

As I thought, “Ok, that wasn’t so bad,” we hit the next rapid and I found myself ejected out of the raft and into the swirling rapid along with two others from our group. I was dunked repeatedly, and terror engulfed me as I was pulled under the raft by the raging current. I could not remember a thing from the prior safety instructions. Needless to say, I was saved and was unscathed, except for a few scrapes, bruises, and drinking gallons of river water. I am forever in the debt of our guide!

As I was reflecting on my “near death” experience I realized that as investors there are many parallels between white water rafting and what we have experienced over the past year or so. Our guide gave me some really good advice, however, in the moment I forgot it all. Here’s what he said…

“YOU HAVE TO THINK LOGICALLY!” - If you have to rescue someone that has been thrown out of the raft, you must grab them by the shoulder straps of their life jacket and dunk them under the water to get buoyancy and momentum needed to drag them into the raft.

When I was in the water I wasn’t thinking logically, I was in survival mode. I would have fought against someone trying to dunk me to pull me in the raft. The same applies to investing, when the market has dropped drastically all the investor thinks about is survival and your survival instincts scream, “Get out! You can’t recover from this! At least you won’t lose any more!” This is where retirement plans capsize and never recover. Sticking to a plan when you are going through the volatility of the market is a must if you are to make it out. Benjamin Graham summed up this sentiment best when he said, “The investor’s chief problem - and even his worst enemy - is likely himself.”

“LISTEN TO YOUR GUIDE AT ALL TIMES.” - Whether I was in the water or in the raft, it was the precise and timely instruction of the guide that got me through any situation that I was encountering. If I could hear his voice over the roar of the rapids, I was ok. Trust me, he received a big tip at the end because I felt that I owed him my life!

There is a reason you hire an advisor. It’s not for the good times, nor is it only for the bull markets; a real advisor proves his worth when the going gets rough and things get crazy. This is because he knows that he is handling your future livelihood. As long as you are able to hear your financial advisor’s voice, allow him to shred the narrative and follow his promptings. If you can do this, you will be ok. Don’t jump ship, hang in there. This is what he was trained to do. You were smart to hire your advisor so trust yourself, listen to your financial professional because they are there to help you succeed. Your financial advisor will celebrate your financial successes because when you succeed, they too are successful.

“SOMETIMES ALL YOU CAN DO IS HUNKER DOWN” - There were times our guide would yell, “GET DOWN!” This meant to lock your feet in, hunker down, and hold on because we were about to hit a massive rock or rapid. He was diligent in watching out for what we were approaching, and his verbal commands were an indication of his concern for our safety. Most importantly, he knew that in that moment, we were safest in the vessel and by not jumping ship.

There are times when the best course of action is hunkering down. No one knows the exact future of the markets, the economy, or what the results of the elections will be. Choosing a financial advisor is like selecting a long-term whitewater rafting guide, but more personal because you are selecting an individual to build an intimate relationship with based upon your future financial needs and/or goals. You have to trust that your advisor will guide you through the process of putting together a strategy that will be ready for such a time as this. You also have to trust that you have been properly allocated and diversified before any indications of a market decline. Through carefully selected and diversified investments, your advisor will guide you through hunkering down and holding on for the ride. You’ll pray it ends sooner rather than later, but if you listen to your financial advisor, you’ll be able to hold on and come out safely on the other side.

Daran Tucker, ChFC
LPL Investment Advisor Representative
www.f-p-r.com

Sen. Standridge plans tougher anti-riot legislation in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – State Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, said he wants to strengthen Oklahoma statutes to better deter violence and ensure financial accountability for those who destroy property during riots.  Standridge said he’s already been working with staff on his proposed legislation ahead of the 2021 session.

“I cannot state strongly enough that I support the people’s right to peaceably assemble, to protest and to express their points of view—these rights are protected by the U.S. Constitution—but the deliberate and wanton destruction of property and other people’s livelihoods must not and will not be tolerated,” Standridge said.

Standridge said current Oklahoma statutes on rioting and unlawful assembly are good, but he believes they can be stronger, particularly in the area of destruction of property.  Some protests held in Oklahoma last summer left businesses in Oklahoma City and Tulsa with damage ranging from graffiti to broken windows, while a nonprofit organization near downtown Oklahoma City was set on fire.

“We need to make sure whether it is 50 cents or $5,000, the person responsible for breaking windows, destroying cars or setting entire businesses on fire needs to be held responsible for every single penny of that destruction,” Standridge said.  “I think by doing that, we can not only do more to hold rioters accountable, but I also think it will discourage people from this indiscriminate destruction of property.”

According to statute, the first day legislators can begin filing legislation ahead of the 2021 session is Nov. 15, 2020.

Hofmeister’s Student Advisory Council shares thoughts on distance learning, systemic racism

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Paeton Watkins (left) and Joy Hofmeister (right).

OKLAHOMA CITY (June 30, 2020) – In a Monday meeting of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister with her Student Advisory Council, high school students voiced their concerns about learning amid a global pandemic and how racism impacts the classroom experience. The group, which met through Zoom, consisted of spring 2020 graduates and members of the Class of 2021.

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Mariah Martin (left) and Joy Hofmeister (right).

This is the fifth consecutive year Hofmeister has convened a student group to assist her and the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) in matters of policy.

Students said the abrupt transition to distance learning this past spring was confusing for many, with the closure of school buildings causing some students to lose focus and drive. Others said they were worried they might miss skills needed for college and sensed their teachers were unprepared to use technology for virtual instruction.

Paeton Watkins of Stillwater High School commended her school for having worked to give seniors flexibility that, in turn, eased the transition to a new style of learning.

“Normally, we’re used to being able to pick what happens in our lives, especially when it comes to school. We weren’t able to do that [with the pandemic],” she said. “My district battled that by giving seniors choices. I think that might be a good thing to look into for upcoming semesters – how can we give students a little bit more of that control back?”

Hofmeister said addressing internet connectivity is critical as schools prepare for the uncertainties of next school year.

“Connectivity is key, and that is our biggest hurdle. We are determined that internet service for all be a basic utility of life. Just like water and electricity, all students should have internet at home,” she said.

Hofmeister noted that $145 million in federal relief funding is available for districts to use on connectivity and devices to close the digital divide, and in the event of a district’s move to virtual instruction. In addition, the state is offering all districts an individualized e-learning tool, Exact Path, at no cost through June 30, 2021.

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Trakel “Kel” Pinkston (left) and Joy Hofmeister (right).

Prompted by current events and nationwide protests, students also discussed their experiences with racial and ethnic identity in schools. Many suggested a new approach to teaching diversity and how to discuss such matters.

“Everyone in my class looked like me, and I wasn’t aware of the struggles other people faced. I couldn’t sympathize with it because I didn’t understand it,” said Mariah Martin of Ringling, who suggested a diversity course as a new high school requirement. “We’re really lacking the ability to have the hard conversations. We have financial literacy. How can we have ‘communication literacy?’”

Trakel “Kel” Pinkston of Putnam City High School pointed out the necessity of a clear-eyed view with such issues: “It’s like putting a Band-Aid on an open wound and not expecting bad results. We have to go back and face our problems. They won’t go away on their own.”

Students also talked about inequity of education resources and suggested an enhanced approach to expose different perspectives of historic events and discussions that include cultural context.

"We need a better curriculum to teach people the mistakes of our past and how we can do better going forward,” said Natalie Rojo of Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy, who also stressed the importance of teaching students how to respect others.

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Natalie Rojo.

Hofmeister said that the teaching of subjects like the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre has evolved over the years. She added that curriculum resources such as the OSDE’s newly released Oklahoma Social Studies Curriculum Frameworks and curriculum developed by the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission are equipping schools to more effectively teach students about historical events and the lingering impact of systemic racism.

“We are not bystanders,” Hofmeister said. “There’s power in youth, and we must change things.“

The students, recommended by educators and counselors in their respective districts, represent rural, urban and suburban schools of all sizes across Oklahoma. Twenty-four are returning members who have served on the council in previous years.

This year’s Student Advisory Council also met Feb. 21 at the State Capitol. For a list of members on the council and their home schools, click here.

Friday marks voter registration deadline for statewide primary

(Oklahoma City) – The deadline to register to vote or update your voter registration for Oklahoma’s Primary election is Friday, June 5.

The State Election Board’s new voter registration “wizard” makes it easier than ever to complete a Voter Registration Application. State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax said the “wizard” is designed to simplify the registration process. Applicants who use the "wizard" will also receive a transaction code they can use to check the status of the application with their County Election Board.

“The new voter registration wizard allows you to complete your application online, then print, sign and mail the application to your County Election Board. By using the State Election Board’s website to fill out your application, you can be certain your personal information is safe and secure,” Ziriax said.

Voters can access the voter registration “wizard” through the OK Voter Portal.

In addition to the voter registration wizard, applicants can download a Voter Registration Application from the State Election Board's website. Current voters can update their voter registration address online using the OK Voter Portal, if the new address is in the same county. Voters can also get a paper voter registration application from their county election board or at a voter registration agency, such as a tag agency.

Voter registration applications must be received by the Election Board or postmarked no later than Friday, June 5.

Visit the State Election Board website at elections.ok.gov for more information.

The Oklahoma Primary Election is Tuesday, June 30.

Hofmeister praises bills addressing dyslexia, school transparency

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OKLAHOMA CITY (May 22, 2020) – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister said the passage of five bills this legislative session will have a positive and meaningful impact strengthening student supports and improving transparency in education. Gov. Kevin Stitt signed all five bills earlier this week. 

“Taken together, these new laws will help push education forward and provide desperately needed supports,” Hofmeister said. “In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, our schools do not lack for challenges, but these measures will help ensure we maintain focus on all of Oklahoma’s more than 700,000 public school students.” 

State lawmakers filed more than 2,300 bills for the 2020 legislative session. The following were among those passed into law. 

House Bill 2804 requires schools to screen kindergarten through third-grade students for dyslexia if they are not reading on grade level at the beginning of the school year. Dyslexia screening will begin in the 2022-23 school year. The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) will have until 2021 to develop the screening process. HB 2804 was authored by Rep. Mike Sanders and Sen. Stephanie Bice. (*Editor’s Note: District 37 Senator Ikley-Freeman and District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan both voted in favor of the bill).

House Bill 2905, also known as the Virtual Charter School Reform and Transparency Act, was authored by Rep. Sheila Dills and Sen. Dewayne Pemberton. Changes to instructional activities, truancy and a required student orientation will go into effect next school year. The OSDE will work to implement changes to the virtual charter school transfer process by 2021-22. (*Ikley-Freeman and Nollan both voted in favor).

Authored by Rep. Tammy West and Sen. Gary Stanislawski, House Bill 3466 requires the State Textbook Committee to use a three-tiered rubric when reviewing materials to be approved for the state list. The committee will be required to provide comments and/or justification for the rating given to each item and to share the rubrics with districts. HB 3466 goes into effect Nov. 1. (*Ikley-Freeman and Nollan both voted in favor).

“By improving transparency and efficiency in the adoption process for new textbooks, Oklahoma can better ensure teachers have high-quality instructional materials for every child they serve,” Hofmeister said.  

Senate Bill 212, authored by Stanislawski and Rep. Rhonda Baker, requires the initial allocation of state aid for statewide virtual charter schools to be calculated like that of all other schools, rather than using a weight of 1.333 for all virtual students enrolled as of Aug. 1. (*Nollan voted in favor of the bill, while Ikley-Freeman was excused).

Senate Bill 1436 creates a new micro-credential for special education teachers already certified in mild-moderate disabilities to become certified in severe-profound disabilities and allows the State Board of Education to issue a two-year provisional certificate as teachers work to complete the credential. SB 1436, which was authored by Stanislawski and Rep. Nicole Miller, also creates a new certification in the area of comprehensive special education. (*Nollan voted in favor of the bill, while Ikley-Freeman was excused).

Bill signed into law creating ‘Imagination Library’ for Oklahoma children

(*Editor’s Note: District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted against the bill, while District 66 Representative Jadin Nollan was excused from the vote).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma is on its way to having its own Imagination Library—a literacy program providing free books to encourage children to read. Sen. John Haste, R-Broken Arrow, and Rep Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, are principal authors of SB 1803, creating the framework for Oklahoma’s Imagination Library, modeled after a program founded by entertainer Dolly Parton in her home state of Tennessee.  The governor signed the measure into law on Thursday.

“The Imagination Library is a public/private partnership that will mail every single child in Oklahoma one high-quality, age appropriate book a month from birth through age five, with no restrictions or financial limits for families to participate,” Haste said.  “This program has been proven to increase reading time, increase kindergarten readiness and is credited with helping children score higher on reading tests.”

SB 1803 creates a revolving fund for Oklahoma’s Imagination Library and places administration under the State Department of Education.  Haste said the first book mailed to each Oklahoma child will be “The Little Engine that Could.”

Haste said he was inspired to begin an Imagination Library after attending a meeting of the National Conference of State Legislatures in Tennessee in 2019, which included a presentation with Parton.  She founded the Imagination Library in 1995 for the children in Sevier County, Tennessee, with the program later expanding throughout the entire state. Today, Parton’s Imagination Library has partners in communities throughout the country, with statewide programs in North Carolina, Ohio, Arkansas and Delaware and has been adopted in Australia, Canada, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

“Reading is the basis for all learning,” Townley said. “Inspiring a love of reading in children at an early age will help better prepare them to become life-long learners and give them a leg up when they start school. I’m thankful to have worked with Senator Haste to bring this program to Oklahoma and I look forward to seeing the impact this will have on our school-age children.”

Bill extending emergency certifications signed into law

(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan voted in favor of the bill, while District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted against).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma’s schools will soon have more teaching applicants thanks to a bill signed Thursday. The State Board of Education approved emergency rules in March to allow emergency teaching certificates to be renewed for up to three years, and the governor approved the rules in April. However, the legislature felt more must be done for Oklahoma schools, so Senate Bill 1115 removes the emergency certification renewal cap all together beginning November 1.

Sen. Ron Sharp, R-Shawnee, authored the bill to help address the state’s teacher shortage and shrink class sizes.

“In order to provide the best education to our students, we desperately need more teachers. So many schools have no other applicants besides these individuals so when their two years is up, the school is forced to leave the position open and increase class sizes,” Sharp said.  “There are many reasons that keep people from becoming fully certified and that’s their choice, but until we have more certified teachers seeking positions, we can’t continue to punish the schools by forcing them to let those with alternative certification go.  If they have a passion for teaching, we need to keep them in the classroom.”

Anyone who has been employed by a school district for at least two years can have their emergency teaching certificate renewed if the following criteria are met:

• They have not successfully completed the competency exams.

• They submit a portfolio of their work to the State Board of Education, including progress toward standard certification.

• The local school district’s superintendent proves the district is unable to hire a teacher with a standard certificate to the State Board of Education.

Rep. Danny Sterling, R-Tecumseh, is the House author of SB 1115.

“Oklahoma has been dealing with a teacher shortage for years, and I hope this legislation will help meet a need,” Sterling said. “Allowing school boards to have the option of rehiring emergency certified teachers who have done well in their classrooms in lieu of qualified certified teachers will expand the hiring pool and bring more stability to our classrooms.”

SB 1115 exempts emergency certified teachers from protection under the Teacher Due Process Act of 1990.

State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman hospitalized after fatal car wreck

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UPDATE:

According to a statement provided by the family of Senator Ikley-Freeman, she initially listed in critical condition and underwent surgery immediately after the crash. She suffered multiple injuries that will require significant recovery, and is still being treated in the Intensive Care Unit. She is listed as being in serious, but stable condition.

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According to a post on her official Facebook page, District 37 State Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman was involved in a vehicular accident on the Turner Turnpike while on her way to the State Capitol Friday morning. The incident reportedly left one victim dead, and the senator, who represents Sand Springs, was transported to the University of Oklahoma Health Center for treatment.

Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd issued the following statement:

“Earlier this morning, one of the members of the Senate Democratic Caucus, Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman of Tulsa, was returning to the state Capitol for session and was involved in an accident on the Turner Turnpike.  She was transported to Oklahoma City’s OU Medical Center for care.”

“While we want to be respectful of her privacy, we also want to thank our colleagues in the Senate and fellow Oklahomans who’ve reached out to express their concern, and we ask everyone for continued prayers for Senator Ikley-Freeman and her family.”

Senator Ikley-Freeman assumed office in 2017 and is currently up for reelection. She filed unopposed for the Democratic nomination, and will face the winner of the Republican Primary in November. A therapist by trade, Ikley-Freeman was just appointed to the State Health Care Board on Thursday. She is married with three children.

Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman appointed to state health care board

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OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Allison Ikley-Freeman, D-Tulsa, was recently appointed to the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Resources Board.

The board governs the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Resources Center (OHCWRC), which was created in 2006 to collect and analyze data relating to health care worker supply and demand trends; ensure Oklahoma’s education and training systems have the resources to support and produce the number of health care workers needed in the state; increase awareness among citizens of health care careers and opportunities; and improve job satisfaction and retention rates of state health care employees.

As a member of the board, Ikley-Freeman will be responsible for the oversight of the executive director of the OHCWRC.

“I’m excited to get to work on the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Resources Board, and am thankful to Sen. Floyd for the opportunity,” Ikley-Freeman said. “As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever to ensure we are recruiting our state’s best and brightest to fill our health care related jobs, as well as provide the support our current health care workers need to be successful.”

Ikley-Freeman was appointed to the post by Senate Minority Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City.

“I am pleased to appoint Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman to the Oklahoma Health Care Workforce Resources Board,” said Senate Democratic Leader Floyd. “As a mental health professional, Senator Ikley-Freeman will bring a much-needed perspective to this board.”

Governor signs Oil and Gas Produced Water and Waste Recycling and Reuse Act into law

(*Editor’s Note: District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman and District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan both voted in favor of the measure).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation designating who owns and is responsible for wastewater resulting from oil and natural gas drilling operations was signed into law on Tuesday by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

Authored by Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, Senate Bill 1875, also known as the Oil and Gas Produced Water and Waste Recycling Reuse Act, clarifies that produced water and waste is the property of the oil and gas producer until it is officially transferred to another person. It also shields liability from those who process wastewater into recycled water and/or transport this recycled water for further use in oil and gas production. 

By clarifying ownership and liability, the measure aims to attract entrepreneurs to innovate and invest in technology to process and treat oil and gas produced water and waste, resulting in a beneficial resource and a reduction in wastewater injection, Rader explained.

“This law is the result of unprecedented negotiations between oil, gas, agricultural and landowner stakeholders across the state,” Rader said. “We’ve all seen negative impacts of underground wastewater injection. It’s in the state’s best interest to cultivate, encourage and promote developments that allow for the economical treatment of wastewater so it can become a useful resource in the future. By clarifying ownership and liability, this law could help protect existing freshwater resources and groundwater from potential pollution.”

House author Rep. Terry O’Donnell, R-Catoosa, said the bill helps clarify an issue that until now was ambiguous in state statute.

“Such clarity will give Oklahoma a competitive edge in attracting entrepreneurs looking to turn wastewater into a reusable resource,” O’Donnell said. “This helps us create a stronger business environment as we continue to seek ways to diversify our state’s economy.”

Numerous groups came together to support this legislation, including the Oklahoma Secretary of Energy and Environment; Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality; Oklahoma Farm Bureau; The Petroleum Alliance; Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association; State Chamber of Commerce; Environmental Federation of Oklahoma; Coalition of Surface Owners and Mineral Owners; and Lagoon Water Midstream.

Gov. Stitt signs two measures protecting rights of nursing mothers

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(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman both voted in favor of both bills).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Kevin Stitt signed two bills Tuesday to protect state employees who are nursing.  Sen. Kim David, R-Porter, authored the measures to ensure mothers are allowed daily break time and privacy to breastfeed or express milk. 

“There is nothing more beneficial to a baby’s health than to be nursed.  We want to support moms who choose this healthy option,” David said.  “It’s something that needs to be done throughout the day to protect the milk supply and ensure the mother’s comfort. These changes will help support nursing moms and hopefully encourage more to consider this nutritious option for their kids.”

SB 285 requires state agencies to allow lactating employees reasonable paid break time to use a designated lactation room.

SB 1877 requires all buildings owned or leased by the state where state employees work to have a place other than a bathroom for breast feeding or to express breast milk. 

“Lactation rooms can already be found in federal buildings for their employees. Oklahoma state employees deserve the same,” David said. “I’m proud of Oklahoma for supporting nursing mothers and ensuring Oklahoma’s children get off to a healthy start.”

Currently, federal law requires that all federally owned or leased buildings have a lactation room.  The Affordable Care Act (ACA) amended the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 to require employers to provide reasonable break times for employees to express breast milk for the first year of the child’s life.

Rep. Carol Bush, R-Tulsa, is the principal House author of both bills, which will become law November 1, 2020. 

“Nursing mothers returning to work deserve consideration of their needs and privacy where they can lactate,” said Bush. “These bills ensure that state employees will have a designated room for lactation and appropriate break time allotted for them to take care of this need.”

Shepherd’s Law, providing for licensure of midwives, becomes law

(*Editor’s Note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman, representing Sand Springs, both voted yes on the bill).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation creating a system for licensing midwives has been signed into law.  Senate Bill 1823, creating Shepherd’s Law, was signed into law Monday by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

State Sen. Brenda Stanley, a former educator, is principal author of SB 1823, also known as Shepherd’s Law, named for the baby of a former student--the infant died a day after a planned home delivery that went wrong.  Stanley, R-Midwest City, expressed her thanks to supporters inside and outside the Capitol for helping move the bill all the way through the process.  Stanley noted that Certified Professional Midwives are already regulated in 34 other states.  She said getting SB 1823 signed into law is an important step for Oklahoma.

“Shepherd’s Law provides for licensure, oversight, accountability, informed consent, and preserves parental choice about who they want to use, whether it’s an obstetrician, a lay-midwife, or a licensed, certified midwife,” Stanley said.  “Ultimately, I believe this bill will help us better protect the health and safety of mothers and babies.”

Under SB 1823, a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) or Certified Midwife (CM) would be required to be licensed in Oklahoma.  All midwives would be required to disclose what credentials or licensure they may or may not have, their limitation of skills and whether they carry malpractice insurance.  A required informed consent document would also include information on the midwife’s plan for emergencies and complications and gives parents the ability to pre-select a hospital in case of an emergency.

Licensed midwives would also be required to advise clients to seek medical care for pregnancies outside their scope of practice and to call for emergency assistance in situations that fall outside their scope of practice.  The $1,000 license would be good for three years.

The legislation also places oversight of the midwifery profession under the State Commissioner of Health and creates an Advisory Committee on Midwifery to assist the commissioner in matters pertaining to licensure, discipline and related issues.  Rulemaking authority of the commissioner includes scope of practice, a formulary of prescription drugs for licensed midwives to administer, routine tests, and continuing education. The Health Department would also maintain a roster of licensed midwives.

The measure was supported by the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives, Oklahoma Chapter.

The House principal author of SB 1823 is Rep. Cynthia Roe, R-Lindsey.  She said the new law will take effect on November 1, 2020.

“This law will give prospective Oklahoma mothers the ability to determine the credentials and skills a midwife has before making a decision about who they want to entrust with their life and that of their baby,” Roe said. 

Unemployed Oklahomans rally at State Capitol to protest problems with unemployment system

OKLAHOMA CITY – Unemployed Oklahomans who are self-employed rallied at the state Capitol Monday wanting answers to why their claims have not been fulfilled after weeks of waiting. State Senator Mary Boren has been working tirelessly trying to get answers as many unemployed Oklahomans are facing eviction and other financial troubles.

“Being that the state has already received its federal unemployment funds, I don’t understand why these citizens aren’t getting their benefits,” Boren said. “It’s beyond frustrating that our citizens, through no fault of their own had to close their businesses because of the health crisis yet haven’t received the unemployment benefits they were promised.  Something must be done immediately so these people don’t lose their homes, cars, or have to close their businesses permanently and experience complete financial ruin.”

Boren said her office has been inundated with calls and emails of Oklahomans who have not received any unemployment benefits, cannot get through to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) to get an update on their case, or if they do get through are told someone will get back to them but never does.

Three types of unemployment are currently available to self-employed Oklahomans, gig workers, independent contractors and those who have exhausted their regular unemployment benefits.

1. Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) is available to those who do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits. PUA benefits became available at the end of April.

2. Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Assistance (PEUA) will begin this week and will provide an additional 13 weeks of benefits (through the week ending Dec. 26, 2020) to those who have exhausted regular unemployment insurance benefits.

3. Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) provides an additional $600 per week to all eligible Unemployment Insurance (UI) claimants through the week ending July 25, 2020.

The Norman senator cited a survey from the Oklahoma Self-Employed Professionals, a group of private citizens who have received no PUA assistance and are demanding accountability from the OESC, the governor and other state leaders. The survey included responses from more than 300 Oklahomans.

Nearly half of respondents said they have received no confirmation that their claim has been approved or denied. Nearly 60% of those surveyed said they have been disconnected at least twice when calling in to check on the status of their claim. Only 14% of those approved for PUA have been able to file their weekly claims.

The survey found that when people did get through they experienced long wait times.  Over 28% said they waited 30 minutes to an hour, nearly 16% waited 1-2 hours, and nearly 24% waited over 2 hours to talk to an OESC employee about their claim.

Of those surveyed, 88% said when their call was answered there was no Tier 1 Specialist available to help them. Nearly 46% said when they talked to a Tier 1 Specialist, they were provided incorrect information.

When speaking to a Tier 1 Specialist, 69% were told their case was "high priority" or "critical" and that they were at the top of the list for a Tier 2 agent to return their call. Nearly 85% of these individuals are still waiting to be contacted by a Tier 2 agent. Less than 3% of those who have talked to a Tier 2 agent said they were able to address their issue successfully.

“This is a just a small reflection of what is happening to Oklahomans all over the state.  I urge Gov. Stitt to hold OESC accountable and get these hardworking Oklahomans the benefits they have earned and deserve before their lives are destroyed.  This isn’t a game.  These are people’s lives and they need relief immediately,” Boren said.

According to OESC, the state has received just over $1.21 billion in federal funds for PUA, PEUC and FPUC.

Attorney General Hunter Applauds House and Senate Members for Legislation Creating Opioid Abatement Board

(*Editor’s Note: Both District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted in favor of the bill).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Mike Hunter today commended members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and the Senate, who voted to create the Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board.

The board will be responsible for distributing around $25 million from settlements the attorney general reached with opioid manufacturers to eligible cities and counties. The members will develop and implement procedures for the disbursement of the funds to abate the epidemic statewide.

Attorney General Hunter said the board will promote and protect the health of Oklahomans by using the money to comprehensively abate the crisis in collaboration with communities across the state.

“I appreciate the members of the Legislature for their action on this legislation that will get money to communities devastated by the opioid crisis,” Attorney General Hunter said. “Many have been negatively affected by the epidemic. Whether it’s a family member, friend, loved one or neighbor, the disease of addiction does not discriminate. I look forward to working with the members of the board to help our fellow Oklahomans recover.”

Criteria on cities and counties eligibility is listed in the bill. To access the bill, click here: https://bit.ly/2TpD8g7. 

“The board will lay the foundation that will assist communities hardest hit by the opioid epidemic,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat. “We look forward to the governor signing this bill so we can make our appointments and allow the members to begin the important work abating this problem that has claimed too many lives. I appreciate my colleagues in both chambers for prioritizing the health of Oklahomans by making this piece of legislation a priority.”

The nine member board will consist of the attorney general, or his designee, and an appointee from each of the following: the governor, the state auditor, the state treasurer and the superintendent of public instruction. The speaker of the House of Representatives and Senate pro tem will have two appointees each. The attorney general will only vote in case of a tie.

“The opioid epidemic has devastated families and communities throughout our state,” said House Speaker Charles McCall. "The negative statistics are overwhelming. That is why I was heartened to see such broad support for this legislation. The board’s work will reverse these trends through evidence based opioid use prevention strategies and bring about a brighter future for the next generation of Oklahomans.”

The legislation has been sent to the governor for his signature.

Senate Democrats applaud passage of COLA for retirees

(Editor’s Note: Both District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan and District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted yes on the measure).

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democrats applauded passage of House Bill 3350, providing a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for retired public employees.  The full Senate approved the bill on Friday.

Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd said her caucus had long fought for a cost-of-living adjustment for public retirees, including firefighters, police, state employees, and teachers.

Sen. Kevin Matthews, Democratic Caucus Chair, noted it had been over a decade since retired public employees received a COLA.

“What the Senate did today was long overdue,” said Matthews, D-Tulsa, a former professional firefighter. “First responders like firefighters and police officers put their lives on the line in order to protect public safety. The least we can do is allow them to retire with dignity and security.”

Sen. Carri Hicks, a former classroom teacher, said passage of the COLA would benefit thousands of retired educators.

“I’m thankful the Senate took much needed action today to provide a cost-of-living adjustment for our retired teachers,” said Hicks, D-Oklahoma City. “As a second generation Oklahoma public school teacher, I know first-hand the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to educating Oklahoma children. My father worked tirelessly in the classroom for 32 years like so many other proud Oklahoma educators. When teachers retire, they shouldn’t have to struggle to make ends meet.”

Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, called passage of the measure an important first step.

“Senate Democrats have prioritized passage of a COLA in our legislative agenda every session for several years,” Floyd said.  “We will continue advocating on behalf of retired public employees, as well as for state investment in core public services such as education, public safety, and health care.”

HB 3350 now goes to the Governor for his consideration.

Sen. Standridge issues statement on final passage of SB 1046; measure supports launch of SoonerCare 2.0 in July

(*Editor’s note: District 66 Representative Jadine Nollan voted in favor of the bill, while District 37 Senator Allison Ikley-Freeman voted nay.)

OKLAHOMA CITY – State Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, applauded House passage of Senate Bill 1046 on Friday, just two days after the Senate approved the measure as a part of the launch of SoonerCare 2.0 on July 1.  The measure has now been sent to the governor and awaits his signature.

The state’s current Medicaid Program, SoonerCare, currently only covers children, pregnant women, adults with children, elderly adults, and disabled adults.  Beginning July 1, 2020, Oklahoma’s Medicaid program will offer coverage availability to include many low-income adults between the ages of 19 and 64.  In addition to the expansion, the state has requested a federal waiver for the state’s SoonerCare 2.0 program to allow the state more flexibility in how it administers the plan.

Standridge, a pharmacist, issued the following statement on Friday:

“Being a health care professional and having spoken out against the many efforts in the Capitol to sell off our Medicaid system to the highest out-of-state bidder, I was very proud to vote for and champion the passage of Senate Bill 1046.  I’m proud to stand with Governor Stitt in launching SoonerCare 2.0.  This will provide health care to our needy in a responsible way that provides citizens with a pathway to independence.

“Utilizing the new Trump administration’s innovative Healthy Adult Opportunity initiative, the state can have flexibility under SoonerCare 2.0 to provide care in a way the State of Oklahoma and our citizens see best. I have always called for an Oklahoma First philosophy at the state Capitol, and SoonerCare 2.0 is not only Oklahoma First all the way, but it also will place Oklahoma as one of the first states in the nation to take advantage of President Trump’s state sovereignty-minded Healthy Adult Opportunity program.”

Senate approves Sgt. Schoolfield Line of Duty Disability Act

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Senate unanimously approved legislation Friday to ensure police officers seriously injured in the line of duty can get full disability benefits.  House Bill 3330, by Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, creates the Sergeant Schoolfield Line of Duty Disability Act named after Matthew Schoolfield, a 10-year veteran of the Chickasha Police Department, who was shot three times in the line of duty on Sept. 17, 2017 while serving a search warrant.

“While doing his job, Matthew sustained severe injuries, especially to his right arm, in a violent attack that resulted in him not being able to continue working as a police officer,” Paxton said. “However, because of how disability benefits are figured within the Police Retirement System, he can’t get full disability, which would still only get him less than half his regular pay. With no regard for his personal safety, he put his life at risk every day like so many other heroes around our state. These officers deserve better, and this bill will ensure that they can get full disability when they sustain such life-altering injuries.”

The measure modifies disability pension standards for members of the Oklahoma Police Pension and Retirement System (OPPRS) by requiring the Board of Trustees for OPPRS to determine if a police officer who sustains an injury through a violent act, while in the performance of their duties as a police officer, is 100% disabled and entitled to a 100% normal disability benefit.

Rep. David Perryman, D-Chickasha, is the principal House author of the bill, which now moves to the governor for final consideration.