Deadline Week

We just wrapped up deadline week, which is the week where all of the bills that originate in the House have to be heard and voted on before going over to the Senate.  The good news is that my first bill passed out of the House! This bill would help offset daycare expenses for military families whose members are deployed.

Unfortunately, two bills also passed that would roll back the voters' decisions on state questions.  I personally believe that when the people speak, the government ought to listen! I also believe that that is what's wrong with our state legislature - too many legislators are wanting to help special interests instead of doing the right thing.

Finally, the Democrats unveiled a proposed budget that doesn't hurt middle or low income families.  So far, the Democrats are the only ones that have put forward a plan on how to fix the budget (with the exception of Gov. Fallin's atrocious plan to raise taxes on middle and low income families, but give away hundreds of millions in corporate welfare).  

I look forward to constituent coffee next week!

Legislative Update!

We just finished the first month of session.  I am proud to have had two bills make it through committee and hopefully, the Floor Leader will let them be heard on the floor within the next week.  Only time will tell.

On a disappointing note, to date, there have been no major steps forward in budget negotiations; in spite of the fact that a revenue failure has been declared in the state, and we are now facing an even larger budget deficit ($878 million).  I am optimistic that we will overcome this budget crises and get our fiscal house in order by reforming our structural deficits, but again, only time will tell.

That being said, I have been extremely humbled and excited by all of the constituents that have reached out to me on various issues ranging from teacher pay raises to ensuring that children have access to health insurance. 

Finally, we had our first coffee chat at Ray's Café this past week, and it was a huge success! I got to meet many people from the district that I had not previously met, and we engaged in good, honest discourse about how we can make Oklahoma a better home for everyone.  The next meeting will be in March, and I will let you know when that will be.

I am truly proud to represent House District 87 and will continue to fight for our district!