Messy but transparent budget process

Series: Senate Review | Story 9

This week is the last week of regular Session, and Sine Die Adjournment is scheduled for May 31, 2024. Midweek, budget negotiations ground to a halt, but as of Wednesday, the governor, Senate leadership, and House of Representatives leadership agreed on the budget. This is good news as we are near the deadline for our only required constitutional session obligation, to pass a budget. We are applauding the transparent process that got a little messy at times over the overview of budget numbers.

On Tuesday, I was honored to present Mashall Reigh from Medford with a citation on the Senate Floor. Marshall is the recipient of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation Game Warden of the Year Award. His wife, Shana, and many of his fellow wardens were alongside Marshall for this prestigious award presentation. He has been with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation since 2004, and he and his wife and daughter are passionate about the outdoors and hunting and fishing. Marshall is a second-generation game warden following in his father’s footsteps. Congratulations Marshall on a job well done.

On Wednesday, I was honored to present Gerrett Spears, the Superintendent of Burlington Public Schools with a citation on the Senate Floor for his stellar leadership in earning the Professional Oklahoma Educators (POE) statewide School Character Award. This award is given to schools that regularly provide teaching opportunities through their curriculum to promote character-building to their students. Under the leadership of Mr. Spears, Burlington Schools underwent a rigorous application and evaluation process to receive the POE School Character Award. Congratulations to Mr. Spears and Burlington Public Schools for their outstanding and continued success and dedication to their students.

On Monday, May 27, I will participate in the annual Memorial Day ceremony at Woodring Wall of Honor. This occasion is a time to reflect on the tragic loss of life and honor those who have lost their life in defending our nation. Family members of military service members were recognized and honored for their sacrifice to our nation. Lest we never forget those who have fought for our freedom.

Please remember to donate blood if you are able. With the Memorial Day Holiday, recent severe weather, and quickly approaching summertime, blood donations are even more important. So please donate blood if you can.

In closing, as the session draws to a close, I will split my time between Legislative work and harvest time. I pray that each of you is enjoying the fruits of your endeavors, and I look forward to serving you during my last term in office. If I can be of service to you or your family, please reach out to my office. You can reach me at 405-521-5630 or Roland.Pederson@oksenate.gov.

 

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