Capitol Conversations My first few bills to advance to the governor’s desk so far this year have been signed into law. I’m pleased Gov. Kevin Stitt already approved several of my top legislative priorities this session. Hopefully, this is a sign of good things to come as I advance more bills to his desk.My marijuana prepackaging bill was among the measures the governor signed into law. For years, my legislative colleagues and I have worked on this legislation that will require marijuana growers to deliver cannabis flower to dispensaries in reasonably sized packages that include information on where the product was grown. This measure will crack down on backdoor marijuana sales and help keep patients safe by reducing the number of people who handle their medicine. The governor also signed my bill to clarify state law to ensure restaurants can hold educational wine, beer and liquor tastings for their employees. This bill will clear up any confusion the ABLE Commission may have had about these on-premises tastings while also giving restaurant owners more clarity on the amount of alcohol employees can sample. This new law took effect immediately because both chambers classified it as “emergency” legislation.The governor also signed a bill I cosponsored that will allow Oklahomans who are autistic to voluntarily seek a designation on their driver’s license to signal their diagnosis. My hope is that this change will make it easier for law enforcement officers and first responders to communicate more effectively with drivers that may have unique needs. This idea came from one of my constituents, and I look forward to this law taking effect next year. Stitt also approved one of my bills that gives the Administrative Office of the Courts guidance on its hiring considerations for court reporters and interpreters.The Senate on Tuesday passed House Bill 4156 to crack down on illegal immigration. Although immigration is typically addressed at the federal level, Oklahoma is one of a handful of states pursuing new state-level policies as we continue to see an influx of illegal border crossings between Mexico and the United States. I supported HB 4156 because I think it sends a strong message to Washington, D.C., that our federal officials must take action to address the situation at our nation’s Southern border.The Senate also recently passed my bill to tweak state law allowing for racetracks like Remington Park to simulcast horse races. Also awaiting action ...
