Sadly, I am starting the column this week with disappointing news. House Bill 1586, my bill that would reduce state park fees, failed to get a hearing on the Senate floor. This is the third year I have had this legislation pass the House and be ready to be heard on the Senate floor. Sometimes the process in this building gets frustrating. I have been assured with the newly formed task force that they will be looking at state park funding, and entry fees will be one of the first items considered. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department has the ability to lower park fees in their rules process without any legislative action.
There is some movement on the education package this week. We previously were in a stalemate with the Senate as to which bills would proceed. Governor Stitt, meanwhile, announced his proposal for education, which is somewhat similar to our House version. The governor’s plan would send $300 million to the Oklahoma Student Fund; $300 million into the school funding formula, including merit raises for teachers between $2,000 and $5,000; and $200 million for the parental tax credits, prioritizing households that earn under $250,000 annually. House members are evaluating the governor’s suggested plan. We’ll see what emerges from conference committee.
This is deadline week for Senate bills to be heard on the House floor and for House bills to be voted on in the Senate. Anything not heard on the floor this week will not be considered this year but will still be eligible for next year.
Finally, this week, I welcomed my daughter Landi and sister Jan Dailey to the People’s House. It is always fun to show the “People’s House” to the people!
As always, thank You for allowing me to serve you. I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov.
- Jim Grego serves District 17 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Latimer County and part and Pittsburg County.
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