I had the opportunity to meet with the Oklahoma Automobile Dealers Association last week as they held their Southeast Zone meeting in Krebs. This is an annual meeting where we have the chance to hear from local auto dealers about their pulse on many areas, not just auto sales. One continuing theme we hear is about how the automotive manufacturers continue to push electric vehicles on the dealers. I believe this is a direct reaction to the federal government’s belief that everyone wants EVs. That day may come, but I don’t believe it is today.

Interim studies are still the blitz at the Capitol as everyone tries to get theirs completed by Nov. 8. Last week, I attended a study on “Addressing Oklahoma’s Solid Waste Management and E-waste.” It was very informative as we heard from several solid waste disposal firms about how the makeup of our refuse has changed over the past several years. So much of our waste today is composed of electronics. These materials can be recycled to an extent, and we heard about efforts in this direction.

Gov. Stitt announced last week that Sterling Zearley would serve as interim director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.  I believe Sterling is the right person at the right time for this position, as he has extensive management practice of several of our state parks. My hope is the interim title eventually will be replaced with permanent. I should also point out Sterling is originally from Poteau and attended Eastern Oklahoma State College, so he knows Southeast Oklahoma.

Finally, “Happy Newspaper Week.” Call me old fashioned, but I still enjoy reading my papers every morning. I must share that I do like to read digitally now when available, but I still believe that our newspapers and their reporters serve a vital role in keeping the public informed. Anyone can post anything on the internet, but our newspapers are still held accountable for what they report.

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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