While 2019 is winding down, things are still full steam ahead at the Capitol as we look to start a new decade and convene in February for the Second Session of the 57th legislature.

Although we are not in session, I’ve still been staying busy attending conferences, budget meetings and interim studies to learn more about the issues facing Western Oklahoma. I recently hosted an interim study regarding cell phone use in our prison systems, and I’m interested to see what will happen with this issue and criminal justice reform during the upcoming session.

Since we adjourned in May, I’ve visited all of the schools in District 26. I had a lot of great conversations with teachers, principals and superintendents. It is important to have those one-on-one discussions with school administrators, and I’m looking forward to continuing productive dialogues with education stakeholders to increase our state’s educational outcomes.

One of the more exciting events I’ve recently attended is the first Oklahoma Route 66 Convention. I joined Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell and other key stakeholders to create a collaborative plan and vision to better market the “Mother Road” in Oklahoma. This iconic American highway plays a large role in District 26 since it cuts through much of Western Oklahoma. I’m hopeful these types of meetings will increase tourism and enhance the economic development opportunities in our Western Oklahoma towns.

As chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Natural Resources, I’m always looking for ways to learn more about our natural resources. I was honored to attend the recent 40th Annual Oklahoma Governor’s Water Conference and Research Symposium. Safeguarding our water supply and implementing good water stewardship practices is vital to ensuring the future of Oklahoma. Here are a couple points I took away from the conference I believe you will fi nd interesting:

Water is key to economic development. Oil, gas and many other businesses rely on a plentiful and safe water supply to operate. From an agricultural standpoint, it is critical to maintain and conserve our water supply so this resource is available for future generations of agriculturalists. A safe and abundant food supply begins with a safe and plentiful water supply.

We must be proactive when it comes to maintaining our water supply. Our last serious drought ended in 2015, but it is inevitable that we will have additional major droughts in the future. We have to be prepared for this, and that begins with collaboration between rural and urban communities to develop a water safety and conservation plan.

Western Oklahoma recently received great news when Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell announced the hiring of Beckham County native Kirby Smith to his offi ce. Kirby is a great voice for Western Oklahoma, and she will travel the state implementing the Lt. Governor’s mission of supporting economic development, advocating for small businesses and promoting tourism. I know Kirby will be a great asset in this position and will do a fantastic job promoting District 26 and all of Western Oklahoma. Congrats, Kirby!

Finally, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. May we all reflect on our blessings and remember the true reason for this season – the birth of Jesus Christ.

As always, if there is anything I can do to help you, please do not hesitate to reach out. You can reach my office at 405-521-5545, or if you are ever by the Capitol please feel free to swing by. You can fi nd us in Room 417.