Oklahoma Restaurant Association Recognizes Luttrell as Legislator of the Year

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ken Luttrell, R-Ponca City, was recently recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Oklahoma Restaurant Association at the recent Oklahoma Hospitality Leaders Dinner.

The event, an initiative to strengthen Oklahoma’s hospitality industry, was hosted by the Oklahoma Hotel and Lodging Association, the Oklahoma Restaurant Association and the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association.

“Tourism is a driving economic force in House District 37, and I am honored to be acknowledged for my work on behalf of the industry,” Luttrell said. “It is an exciting privilege to work with these organizations as well as Senator Coleman to advance the growth and impact of tourism across the state.”

As tourism is Oklahoma’s third-largest industry, the state welcomed 18.3 million visitors in 2022, a 3.3% increase from 2021. In the same year, travel spending increased to $11.8 billion, a 12.3% increase from the previous record of $10.5 billion.

Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City, was also recognized at the Oklahoma Hospitality Leaders Dinner.

“I’m honored and humbled to receive this recognition from the Oklahoma Restaurant Association,” Coleman said. “I’ve spent my entire Senate career working to help Oklahoma restaurants thrive and grow because they play a crucial role in local communities and are the backbone of our economy. Most recently, I’m proud to have championed policies that support local restaurant owners as they navigate the digital age of food delivery and the growing popularity of delivery apps.”