The Second Regular Session of the 60th Legislature started Feb. 2. The House and Senate convened a joint session to hear the annual State of the State address from Gov. Kevin Stitt. This will be his last as he’s term limited after serving two four-year terms.
While the governor shared his priorities, it will be up to the Legislature to pass new laws and to create a state budget for Fiscal Year 2027, which begins July 1.
We’ve already begun hearing bills in numerous committees.
I’ve authored House Bill 3278, which would allow the state attorney general to enter into a consent order or issue a finding of violation with a public body, agency or officer for violating the Open Meeting Act before filing an action. Consent orders can contain admissions of fact, training requirements and civil penalties up to $150. Findings of violations’ civil penalties can be up to $300.
This builds on work from last year aimed at increasing government transparency. House Bill 2163 statutorily creates a public access counselor position in the state attorney general’s office to review and expedite open records requests of state agencies when they’ve been denied or delayed.
Also during the first week of session, lawmakers observed Rose Day. This day traditionally draws hundreds of Oklahomans to the State Capitol who promote and support anti-abortion and pro-life legislation. Supporters bring roses to their elected leaders, as symbols of the sanctity of the unborn.
This year, we heard from Mia Armstrong, an actress and model who made history as the first child with Down syndrome to record a voiceover for a cartoon character. She’s also been in print ads and had a lead role in a television movie. The last two years she’s lent her voice to the anti-abortion movement, specifically because she said people like her often don’t get the chance to be born. It was very moving to hear her story.
Also last week, we met several homeschool families that visited the Capitol on Homeschool Day. Legislators also were invited to attend an annual breakfast with members of law enforcement.
It’s always gratifying to meet with constituents and concerned citizens on a variety of causes while at the Capitol and at home in the district.
I’ll keep you updated on our progress as the legislative session moves forward.
It’s an honor to serve the folks of House District 38. As always, if you have concerns about bills, or problems I can assist you in solving, please reach out to me at [email protected] or call my office at 405-557-7332.
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John Pfeiffer serves District 38 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Grant County and parts of Garfield, Kay, Logan and Noble counties.
