By Rep. Dillon Travis
Things are moving quickly at the Capitol as we work through another key phase of session. Right now, we are focused on reviewing Senate bills in oversight committees while continuing to hear and vote on measures on the House floor. It has been a full schedule, but I am grateful every day for the opportunity to represent District 35.
Our next major deadline is April 23. By then, all eligible Senate bills must advance out of oversight committees to remain in consideration this session. That means we are working through a high volume of legislation and staying focused on what matters most to Oklahomans.
One of the biggest milestones we reached recently was finalizing the state budget for Fiscal Year 2027. As a freshman legislator, it was meaningful to be part of that process for the first time. The budget is one of the most important responsibilities we have, and this year’s plan reflects a focus on core priorities like education, infrastructure and public safety.
In education, the budget includes $85 million for teacher pay raises and nearly $80 million for literacy and math initiatives, including the Strong Readers program. These investments are aimed at helping students build a strong foundation early and making sure teachers have the support they need in the classroom.
We also made targeted investments in transportation and economic development. This includes $15 million for lake and industrial access projects to support growth and improve connectivity for businesses, along with $2 million for mobility management to better coordinate public transportation services. Public safety remains a priority as well.
Outside of the legislative work, I have enjoyed welcoming you all from back home to the Capitol. I recently had the opportunity to visit with students from the Perry Special Olympics Booster Club. It was great to see them here and spend some time visiting with them.
I also met with representatives from Indian Electric Cooperative, which serves many parts of our district. Reliable electricity is something we all depend on, and I appreciate the work their crews do day in and day out, especially during severe weather.
Please reach out to me with any concerns or questions. I value hearing from you directly, and I appreciate the opportunity to represent you. You can always reach me by email at [email protected].
Rep. Dillon Travis serves District 35 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes Pawnee County and parts of Creek, Noble, Osage and Payne counties. Office: (405) 557-7344
