Wow, what a week so far. My phone started ringing Saturday afternoon about the new rules the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation had posted pertaining to entry into our Wildlife Management Areas.
I was the House author of Senate Bill 448, which requires nonresidents to receive a $100 permit from the department in order to access these lands, but the bill says nothing about in-state residents. The bill allowed the commission to promulgate rules to help implement the new permit, but again it was only for nonresidents.
I’ve talked to the Wildlife director and told him my concerns. He said they are looking into ways to change the emergency rule that is now in place. In order for these rules to become permanent, they will have to come back to the Legislature for approval next session. I’m hopeful, however, that a better solution can be found before then that will put a stop to the department requiring in-state residents to register to access these public lands.
I believe we can do better. If a problem of overcrowding on these public lands exists, then let’s look at alternative ways to manage that with input from our hunters.
On another topic, I continue to receive emails pertaining to the state superintendent of public education. I ask everyone to remember that this position was elected by the people of this state and was won with a very wide margin. I maintain the belief that just because we don’t like somebody doesn’t constitute impeachment proceedings. I do respect your right to your opinion.
Once again, the mountain has won and took another piece of road north of Robbers Cave State Park. Sometimes, you wonder if roads just weren’t meant to be in certain places. The good news is that our own Department of Transportation employees were on site this past week making needed repairs. When I traveled through, the outside temperature was 98 degrees, and this crew was laying asphalt. I commend them for their dedication.
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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