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Cantrell
Summer is quickly approaching, and tourism is picking up in House District 49.Wearelucky enough to have two incredible lakes in our district, LakeMurray and Lake Texoma.
Did you know that Lake Texoma is one of the premier striped bass hot spots in the Southwest? AsOklahoma’ssecond-largest lake, people from all over the region travel to partake in the great fishing, camping and hiking.
WealsohaveLakeMurrayinthe region, one of Oklahoma’s clearest lakes. Just in time for summer, Lake Murray Lodge is opening a new restaurant. I can’t wait to visit the new restaurant with my family this summer!
Our district’s lakes bring a wide range of tourism opportunities and offer visitors to experience nature, culture and adventure. Tourism is Oklahoma’s third-largest industry and is the front door to economic development. Its distinction in our economy is a testament to our people, state and workforce. Lake Texoma and Lake Murray bring a fun-filled experience for our locals and visitors alike.
In 2021, the Oklahoma tourism industry generated $748 million in state and local taxes, an increase of 3.3 percent over 2019. That translates to an annual savings of $485 for every Oklahoma household, supporting 96,800 jobs.
The money generated from tourism is invested directly back into our local communities, making tourism an essential part of our economy in House District 49. I want to thank everyone who works in the state parks for their hard work, time and effort.
So far, we have about two weeks left in session. I plan to keep you updated on the final budget and educationplaninthecomingweeks.
Again, thank you for electing me to serve District 49. It is truly an honor and privilege to represent you at the State Capitol. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 405-5577383orjosh.cantrell@okhouse.gov.. Rep.JoshCantrell,aRepublican, serves District 49 Oklahoma House of Representatives, which covers Carter, Love and Marshall counties.