As the legislative session unfolds, the Capitol is abuzz with discussions about policies that will shape Oklahoma’s future, from education reforms to economic growth.

One of our primary goals this legislative session is to implement policies that improve academic achievement and foster thriving classrooms. A key step in that direction came last week when the House passed House Bill 1276, also known as the “Bell to Bell, No Cell” bill, with an 82-9 vote.

This legislation aims to create a more focused learning environment by limiting cell phone use during class time. By reducing distractions, we hope to help students stay engaged and better equipped for success.

Another topic for this upcoming session is investing in mental health.

This investment is essential to building stronger, healthier communities across our state. Mental health is crucial to the well-being of our communities, and this year, the House is prioritizing strategic investments in mental health care. We plan to increase access to services across the state, with a particular focus on rural districts where care can be harder to access. By expanding facilities and resources, we can ensure more Oklahomans receive the support they need.

Ensuring fiscal responsibility remains a cornerstone of our legislative approach. We are committed to developing a tax structure that keeps more money in Oklahomans’ pockets while maintaining essential government services. By being good stewards of taxpayer dollars, we can support growth without compromising critical programs.

Promoting workforce development and economic growth is critical to ensuring a prosperous future for Oklahoma. Our economic policies are grounded in objective data to guide investments in workforce and infrastructure development. This evidence-based approach ensures we allocate resources where they will have the greatest impact.

Other key priorities for this legislative session include infrastructure- driven growth, robust support for the agricultural industry, and strengthening our military bases. We are committed to using data-driven insights to guide decisions on workforce development and infrastructure investments.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s economy, and we will continue advocating for policies that ensure its long-term vitality. Our military installations play a critical role in national defense and significantly contribute to our state’s economic strength. We are actively pursuing initiatives to fortify these bases and amplify their positive impact on surrounding communities.

As we move through this session, our focus remains on policies that build a brighter future for all Oklahomans. With thoughtful legislation and responsible governance, we can create a stronger, more prosperous state for generations to come.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. My email address is neil. hays@okhouse.gov, or you can call my office at (405) 557-7302. I am proud to represent you at the State Capitol!

Neil Hays serves District 13 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes parts of McIntosh, Muskogee and Wagoner counties.