We are now a month into the legislative session, and House bills are beginning to reach the floor for a vote. I have co-authored important bills that work toward ensuring that Oklahomans have a more accessible and effective government.
House Bill 2106, authored by Rep. Mike Osburn and co-authored by myself, Rep. Dell Kerbs, and Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, focuses on improving election scheduling to
enhance voterparticipation and streamline the electoral process. The bill would Rep. Hays
limit the number of elections held each year to prevent voter fatigue and increase voter turnout.
HB2106 would shift elections previously held on the second Tuesday of September to the third Tuesday of June and move November elections from the second Tuesday to the fourth Tuesday of August in odd-numbered years. By establishing standardized election dates, the bill would enhance voter awareness and would streamline administrative procedures, promoting greater consistency.
Another critical piece of legislation I have coauthored is House Bill 2751, authored by Rep. Trey Caldwell and coauthored by Rep. Tim Turner, with Sen. Ally Seifried serving as the principal Senate author. This bill would introduce setback requirements for wind energy structures and mandates the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to maintain a public database of these regulations by county.
This measure aims to provide greater transparency for communities affected by wind energy projects. The Corporation Commission anticipates a financial impact to implement and maintain this database, potentially requiring additional funding. Both of these bills have passed the oversight committee and are now eligible for a vote on the House floor.
Beyond legislative work, I want to take a moment to recognize two outstanding professionals from Muskogee who have recently been honored at the State Capitol.
Dr. J’Dene Rogers, a Muskogee native, served as the Psychologist of the Day. She holds degrees from Northeastern State University, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of Arkansas. With over 20 years of experience in mental health, she has worked in multiple settings, serving diverse populations as a therapist, speaker, and community liaison. Her dedication to mental health continues to make a profound impact in our community.
Norma Kirk, another exemplary Muskogee resident, was honored as the Nurse of the Day. Norma’s career as a registered nurse spans decades, demonstrating incredible resilience and passion for patient care. Despite facing personal health challenges, including overcoming a brain tumor and a traumatic patient attack, she has remained dedicated to her calling. She spent 18 years serving veterans at the Muskogee Jackson Montgomery VA Medical Center and now continues her work as a school nurse for four Muskogee schools, shaping the lives of young students through her compassionate care.
As we continue working toward a better Oklahoma, I am committed to supporting legislation that promotes transparency, efficiency, and community engagement. HB2106 and HB2751 are steps in the right direction, ensuring that our elections and energy policies work for the people. Additionally, recognizing and honoring professionals like Dr. Rogers and Nurse Kirk reminds us of the importance of dedicated individuals who serve our communities daily.
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 Mc-Intosh, Muskogee and Wagoner counties.
