This week, I am focusing my weekly update on recent legislation we passed related to state powers in Oklahoma.
First up is Senate Bill 404, which protects religious organizations from discrimination due to their religion. Oklahoma is one of 23 states with a law protecting religious freedom.
Senate Bill 404 makes sure our state stays in line with some of the recent big decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court about keeping religion and government separate. In simple terms, the government can’t treat religious groups differently from other private organizations regarding benefits.
Wealsoworkedonfundingpublic health this year. The Oklahoma Health Care Authority got $30 million to help increase pay for longterm care providers. On top of that, we’re putting over $5 million toward boosting psychiatric residency spots in Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is also seeing a budget bump—up 7.8%. And finally, House Bill 2924 is sending about $25.7 million from the Opioid Lawsuit Settlement Fund totheOklahomaOpioidAbatement Revolving Fund to fight the opioid crisis.
Last,weestablishedtheWomen’s Bill of Rights to clear up how state law defines women. It makes sure that whenever laws mention women, they’re talking about biological females.
House Bill 1449 also bans unfair treatment based on sex but still allows the government to make common-sense differences between men and women when it comes to safety and privacy. For example, the state can keep restrooms, locker rooms, athletic facilities, and shelters separated by sex to protect people’s privacy and safety. Same goes for places like prisons and detention centers.
In a time when the Biden Administration continues to push its deeply radical gender ideology, it’s important to take steps to protect Oklahoma women.
I look forward to sharing more updates in the coming weeks. I’m open to hearing from everyone – the more constituents involved, the better I can do my job for House District 49.
Again, thank you for electing me to serve House District 49. It is truly an honor and privilege to represent you at the State Capitol. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any concerns at 405-557-7383 or josh.cantrell@okhouse.gov.
Rep.JoshCantrell,aRepublican, serves District 49 Oklahoma House of Representatives, which covers Carter, Love and Marshall counties.