Now that the bill requests are filed and language for each is being drafted, we will start looking at budgetary issues. This week, the Appropriations and Budget Natural Resources Subcommittee will hear from the state agencies to which we appropriate funds. This is the time for the agency heads to present their requests for the upcoming year and to give us an overview of how they’re spending current-year dollars. I always enjoy these meetings. Oftentimes, we may veer off course a little and are able to ask questions of these agency heads to help us better understand how to get back on track. These numbers will be considered as part of the entire state budget. It is a good system, and this is where it begins.
Last week, I toured a local childcare learning center in McAlester. They are very concerned that the Department of Human Services is reducing funding for afterschool care. Apparently, DHS has determined that 6- through 12-year-old children are able to go home without supervision. I disagree with this assumption as I know very few 6-year-olds that I feel could go home without supervision. A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of the licensed childcare providers, so we will see where this goes. My experience has been that when agencies face shortfalls they tend to cut programs that will get the most outcry from the public. I suspect some of this may be going on here.
I also attended a luncheon with our state chancellor for higher education and some of the members of the State Board of Regents as they unveiled their budget request for the upcoming year. I had a chance to visit with many local college presidents as well as many board members. This could be an interesting budget year. We will see.
How about that Talihina Golden Tigers football team! State Champions in their league for the first time since 1966. I wish to congratulate them on this win. Maybe we can recognize them on the House floor at some point during session.
As always, I’m thankful to the constituents of House District 17 for allowing me to serve. If I can help you in any way, 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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