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OKLAHOMA CITY – House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, comments on the appointment of Dr. Jim Hess as the next President of Oklahoma State University: "I am thrilled to hear of the official appointment of Dr. Jim Hess as the next President of OSU. His experience and dedication to student success and the university make him well-suited for this role. Since stepping in as interim president, he’s been a great partner to the Legislature, and his official appointment brings stability to the university as it prepares for continued growth and future success." "I’m grateful to the OSU Board of Regents for their swift and decisive action today. Having reliable, long-term leadership in place will allow the institution and the general public to buy in to a long-term vision of making Oklahoma State University the preeminent land grant University in the country."

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, today shared the news of the passing of her uncle, former Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Hamp Baker, who died following a battle with cancer at 91. Commissioner Baker served the state from 1974 to 1985, becoming a well-known figure both for his work and his memorable public safety campaign slogan: “Hamp Baker says Drive with Care.” The slogan—often seen on car hoods and signs across Oklahoma—became one of the most recognized marketing efforts of the 1970s. “He loved being a Corporation Commissioner and he loved Oklahoma,” said Townley. “But to me, he was just my uncle—my mom’s brother, the one who encouraged me to run for office and believed in me before I believed in myself. He even helped me put out signs. He was one of my favorite people on this planet. I am keeping my cousins and family in my prayers during this difficult time.” Even in his 90s, Hamp was still pulling his own oil wells up until about a month ago. After his time on the Commission, Baker continued to advocate for Oklahoma energy, working with the National Association of Energy Users to promote the use of Oklahoma natural gas on a national level. Baker’s passion for public service and deep commitment to his home state left a lasting impact on Oklahoma—and on his family. "My uncle’s slogan was ‘Put your stamp on Hamp,’” Townley said. “He certainly put his on Oklahoma.”

Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, has been named one of The Journal Record’s Oklahoma Achievers Under 40 for 2025, which is given to Oklahomans under the age of 40 who have made an impact on the state.  "I'm incredibly honored to be recognized as one of Oklahoma's Achievers Under 40," Pae said. "Public service has always been my passion, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve my hometown of Lawton and our great state. This recognition is a reflection of the many mentors, colleagues, and community members who have supported me along the way."  Pae was elected to serve House District 62 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2018. He currently serves as chair of the House Appropriations & Budget Subcommittee on Human Services, as well as vice chair of the House Children, Youth and Family Services Committee. In 2020, he was a co-vice chair of the House State and Federal Redistricting Committee following the decennial U.S. census.  He was awarded the 2019 Rising Star Award by the International Leadership Foundation (ILF) for his professional achievements and dedication to the improvement of the Asian Pacific American community. Prior to his election to the House, he worked in municipal government in Lawton.  This year’s honorees will be the 22nd Class of The Journal Record’s Oklahoma Achievers Under 40 list. All honorees will be recognized on May 15 at the Oklahoma History Center.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Jim Grego, R-Wilburton, on Monday secured passage of a bill that will create a lottery system for nonresidents seeking a hunting, killing or trapping permit with the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission. Senate Bill 448 requires out-of-state hunters to pay a $100 permit fee in addition to the traditional hunting license fee to use refuge or wildlife management areas maintained by the commission. The measure now moves to the governor for his consideration of signing it into law. "This just allows the Wildlife Conservation Commission to know who is hunting in the areas they maintain," Grego said. "If they have more hunters than can be managed at one time, this allows the commission to establish a lottery system." Grego explained this can be done on a case-by-case basis for specific areas maintained by the Wildlife Conservation Commission. It does not affect in-state residents or private land. Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, is the principal Senate author of the bill. “The passage of Senate Bill 448 marks a significant step forward in safeguarding Oklahomans’ access to our state’s wildlife management areas," Hamilton said. This legislation prioritizes the rights of our citizens while continuing to welcome visiting outdoorsmen from other states through the lottery system and permitting process outlined in this bill. I am grateful for the support of my legislative colleagues and look forward to seeing this measure signed into law.”

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, on Monday won passage of legislation that prohibits the governor from closing any business during a pandemic without documented scientific evidence that the nature of the business actually contributes to the spread of the disease. Senate Bill 672 now moves to the governor's desk for his consideration of signing it into law.   "This bill is not about actions taken in the past, but about how we're going to move forward as a state to protect the free enterprise of our business owners in the same way we allow the public the freedom to choose how best to protect themselves," West said. "What this bill does is ensure that due process will be afforded business owners even during a state of emergency." Sen. Julie McIntosh, R-Porter, is the principal Senate author of the bill. "The passage of SB672 is a significant step toward ensuring that our small businesses are not unduly burdened during emergencies," she said. "This legislation guarantees that any decision to close a business is backed by clear evidence and due process. It's about safeguarding the rights of our entrepreneurs while still allowing for necessary public health measures. I appreciate my colleagues in both chambers for supporting this commonsense measure." West said the language of the measure fits with Article Two, Section Two of the Oklahoma Constitution, which guarantees all persons have the inherent right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and the enjoyment of the gains of their own industry.  According to the language of this bill, the governor would still have the ability to close businesses during a pandemic to protect public health if there is scientific evidence that a particular business is a contributor to the spread of the disease. The governor would have to give notice and the opportunity for a hearing for any business determined to be nonessential or determined to be detrimental to public health. This would give the business a course of action to plead their case and possibly stay open. West said during the initial onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, many small businesses across the state were forced to close even as larger businesses were allowed to remain open. Other businesses, such as restaurants or bars were forced to close after certain hours even though no scientific proof was presented that the spread of the disease was more prevalent at one time over another. These policies were devastating to businesses owners, forcing some to close or lay off staff, and it hurt the overall economy of the state. He said there is no evidence the policies did anything to stop the spread of the disease. The bill passed in the House on a vote of 74-15. If signed into law, it would become effective July 1. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ross Ford, R-Broken Arrow, invites all Oklahomans to attend the third annual Oklahoma Memorial Trail Ruck-Off in Broken Arrow on Saturday, May 10. This year's ruck-off is named in honor of U.S. Army Infantry Major Clarence Oliver, a combat veteran of the Korean War who resides in Broken Arrow.  The ruck-off is a military-style march in which participants will carry a weighted ruck sack or backpack. The event aims to raise awareness about veteran issues, support military recruitment efforts and promote the Oklahoma Military Trails. "I hope many Oklahomans will come out for this important event, whether they choose to march to bring attention to veteran issues, or whether they cheer on others or simply attend the closing ceremonies," Ford said. "Our veterans have done so much to preserver our freedoms and keep our citizens safe. It will be an honor to recognize their efforts in this way." Ford thanks the City of Broken Arrow, the Veterans & Public Safety Caucus, the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs and Soldiers Wish for their partnership in organizing this event.  The march will begin at 7 a.m. at Veterans Park, 1111 S Main St. in Broken Arrow. Participants can choose between a four-mile or a twelve-mile route, with or without a 35-pound ruck. The closing ceremony is scheduled for noon behind the Veterans Center, 1117 S Main St. Broken Arrow VFW Post 10887, 1117 S Main St., is having a pancake breakfast from 7:30 to10:30 a.m., come and go. To register for the march, visit: 3rd Annual Oklahoma Memorial Trail Ruck-March on May 10th, 2025 . 

The Oklahoma House of Representatives on Thursday adopted House Concurrent Resolution 1013 , which proclaims “Christ is King” during the observance of Holy Week. Authored by Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, the resolution affirms Oklahoma’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage and the enduring faith that unites communities. Olsen said that adopting the resolution during Holy Week, a time when Christians reflect on the life, sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ, showcases Oklahoma's commitment to its foundations of Christianity and faith. "This resolution is a bold testament to Oklahoma’s faith-based legacy," Olsen said. "During Holy Week, we honor the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and reaffirm the principles that guide our state. I’m proud to lead this effort to declare ‘Christ is King’ and call upon the help of the 'Supreme Judge of the World.'" Olsen added, "I am hopeful that the Senate will act quickly and hear this resolution as well." Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, is the Senate author of the resolution.

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives on Thursday adopted a resolution recognizing the contribution of lineworkers throughout the state in advance of National Lineman Appreciation Day, April 18. Rep. Mike Dobrinski, R-Okeene, today presented Senate Concurrent Resolution 7 before members of the House. "Lineworkers leave the comfort of their own homes, often in the very worst weather, to put their lives at risk so others can stay home, safe and dry, to wait for the power to come back on, which it always does thanks to the work of these dedicated individuals," Dobrinski said. "I was proud to work with my Senate colleagues to put together this resolution to recognize their significant contributions to the residents and businesses of our great state." In addition to the resolution, Dobrinski also recognized several line workers on the House floor and many more in the gallery who work for state utilities or rural electric cooperatives.  The resolution notes that lineworkers are the true heroes of the electric power industry, responsible for maintaining and repairing electrical power grids 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are often the first to respond during storms and other catastrophic weather events so other first responders can get to the scene safely. They operate under dangerous conditions and risk their lives high atop power lines to keep electricity flowing. They also play a vital role in Oklahoma's economy by maintaining the energy infrastructure that powers homes and businesses. They deserve recognition for their hard work to power local communities and keep people safe during emergencies. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Legislature remembered the 30th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing in a Joint Session Monday, April 14, 2025. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is traveling to all 77 counties across Oklahoma. This Journey of Hope will carry the 30th anniversary message “A Day of Darkness – Years of Light” throughout the state. “Thirty years later, we are not merely looking back — we are moving forward with purpose,” Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City said. “Today, both the House and Senate stand in support as we join the Oklahoma National Memorial in remembrance. The Memorial continues to offer comfort and strength, while the Journey of Hope carries that spirit into every corner of our state, reminding us that from the deepest wounds, the brightest lights of hope can emerge.” The ceremony featured talks from former reporter during the Oklahoma City bombing Carrie Hulsey Emerson, former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating, and CEO & President of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum Kari Watkins.  Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener, carried House Concurrent Resolution 1010 to remember those who died and were wounded during the Oklahoma City bombing, acknowledge the debt of gratitude owed to the many first responders – including local, state, and federal law enforcement personnel, firefighters, search and rescue teams, public and private medical personnel, other emergency services personnel, and thousands of volunteers from the community – who immediately answered the call of helping to rescue the living and recover the dead, and renounce these despicable acts of terrorism.  “I feel a debt each year to make sure to remember those I personally knew who lost their lives in this horrible, terroristic act," West said. "I want to make sure their memories stay with us and all the lessons they taught us. We'll never forget the loss we suffered, but we can choose to embrace forgiveness and hope as we move forward." The Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995, is considered the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in United States History. It resulted in the deaths of 168 people, 19 of which were children, and with hundreds of people injured.