The relationship between the governor and the Legislature seems to be on the upswing. I met several times last week with the governor and his staff discussing his tax cut plan, tribal compacts and the future look of Eastern Oklahoma State College. I believe I have a better understanding of these issues after attending these meetings. The tax cut request, which is only a quarter of one percent, has much more to do with the slowing of government growth as anything. I agree that we can’t just simply continue to spend money because we have it.
The state and the Chickasaw Nation have entered into an agreement on tobacco sales and tribal tags. I believe this is a very positive movement. Relations with the governor and the legislative branch reached a new low when his office filed suit last summer over the legislative branch granting a one-year extension of the previous compacts. My hope now is that more tribal leaders will follow Chickasaw Gov. Anoatubby’s lead and put these issues behind us.
I attended Eastern Oklahoma State College’s Board of Regents meeting last week and listened as the governor talked about his vision for Eastern and Carl Albert Junior College in Poteau to try to enter some agreements where they can share some services. He also wants to look at duplicate programs where one school or the other can excel. I understand the boards of both schools have had some discussions. I trust Eastern’s Board of Regents, led by Chair Leland Walker, will protect Eastern’s best interests.
One thing that continues to amaze me as I travel about Oklahoma City and our State Capitol is the number of people around our state who have ties to Wilburton and Eastern Oklahoma State College. We cannot let this be diminished in any way.
Special session convenes Monday, Jan. 29, with regular session starting the following Monday. Things will be lively at 23rd and Lincoln.
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 parts of LeFlore and Pittsburg counties.
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