The Legislature has adjourned sine die. It was a very busy session withafewtwists and turns, but overall very successful. We accomplished an income tax cut forOklahomans as well as some judicial reform. We increased funding for public education, including greater benefits for veteran and advanced, lead or master teachers; increased funding for country roads and bridges; and achieved important public safety, health care and mental health care reforms.
Here’s a look at a few of the bills I personally championed.
Through House Bill 2796 I was able to secure the release of $5 million that has been tied up in a hazardous mitigation account in the Department of Commerce since 2022. The funds currently in this account are too restrictive to be utilized efficiently. This measure will allow the department to deposit funds, as needed, into any account or subaccount related to the Oklahoma Disaster and Recovery MatchingFund,whichcouldbenefit various projects throughout the state, including, hopefully, here in our House district.
I also was able to get my medical marijuana licensing bill passed and sent to the governor. Senate Bill 1039wasarequestbytheOklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority, giving any licensee who has a problem on their application 30 days to resubmit and 45 days to pay any additional fees. This should help the department clear its backlog and work more efficiently.
Also this last week of session, we were able to secure a deal with the governor to pass legislation extending the sunset for one year for the State Board of Cosmetology andBarbering.Thegovernorearlier vetoed legislation extending the sunset date for this board, but it left manyintheindustryconcernedthat without a proper licensing board anyone could begin practicing cosmetology or barbering, exposing the public to unsafe practices. Senate Bill 676 recreates the board, giving us the interim to fully study the governor’s concerns, including his belief that this licensing may need to come under another agency, like the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, which can oversee continuing education and other issues.
I hopee very one in House District 49 enjoys a fun and safe summer. As a member of the House Tourism Committee, I feel honor bound to advocate that everyone get out and enjoy trips to our many parks and attractions throughout our great state.
Even though the legislative session is over for the year, I will still be available to answer any questions. We’ll be returning later in the summer and fall for interim studies, and we’ll be working on legislation and the budget for next year.
Remember, if I can help you with anything, please do not hesitate to reach out: (405) 557-7383 or Josh.Cantrell@OKHouse.gov.
Josh Cantrell serves District 49 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Love County and parts of Carter and Marshall counties.