While the people of Oklahoma voted in favor of a statewide lottery in 2004, it has consistently failed to produce the amount of education revenue supporters had claimed it would. That’s why Sen. John Ford, who represents Craig, Nowata and Washington Counties, has filed legislation that could result in the privatization of the lottery.
read more.

State Senator Andrew Rice (D-OKC) today introduced “Steffanie’s Law,” a bill to require health insurance providers in the State of Oklahoma to cover routine care costs for patients participating in a clinical trial.

Rice said “Steffanie’s Law,” or Senate Bill 1521, would relieve Oklahoma families of the risk of losing their health insurance coverage by participating in clinical trials, which are in some cases the best available treatment for their illness. Currently, most insurance companies deny coverage of routine health care costs once a patient joins a clinical trial.

“Governor Henry is to be commended for his commitment to keeping the promise we made to Oklahoma teachers to raise their pay to the regional average.”

“Senate Democrats have always supported better pay for our teachers because we fundamentally understand greater opportunities for all Oklahomans begin with smart and bold investments in education.
read more.

“I sincerely appreciate the First Lady’s and Governor Henry’s continued commitment to public education, specifically their hard work towards getting Oklahoma teacher salaries to at least the regional average. However, I believe we should be even more aggressive because the regional average is a moving target. As soon as we pass the $1,200 pay raise proposed, that amount will be matched, if not surpassed by our neighboring states.”
read more.

State Senator Bill Brown wants to reduce the number of alcohol- and other intoxicating substance-related deaths and accidents on Oklahoma’s lakes and rivers. He hopes to do this through Senate Bill 1140 which would require a conviction of boating while under the influence (BUI) to be made part of an individual’s driving record.
read more.

State Senator Earl Garrison, D-Muskogee, has filed legislation which would designate the first Monday of each month to honor veterans who are currently serving or were killed in the global war on terrorism.

Senate Bill 1134 asks all state agencies, interested organizations, civic groups and individuals to fly the U.S. flag at half-mast in remembrance of those Oklahomans who are serving or who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces furtherance of victory in the global war on terror, particularly those who have died or have been wounded as a result of such service.

2008 Legislative Agenda Focuses on Opportunity and Responsibility

Statement by Senate Co-President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee, R-Oklahoma City:

"Republicans and Democrats have worked together over the past year in the evenly divided Senate to make sure the people's business gets done.

"While there will be disagreements on certain policy initiatives, I am confident that we can find common ground on some issues proposed by Senate Democrats today.

Statement by Senate Co-President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee, R-Oklahoma City:

“My thoughts and prayers are with Speaker Cargill and his family. He made a difficult decision, and should be commended for putting his caucus, the House of Representatives, and the state ahead of himself.

“Lance Cargill has many legislative successes during his tenure as Speaker that have had a positive impact on our state. He and I have had a positive working relationship as legislative leaders, and I wish Lance the best in his future endeavors.”

“It has become apparent in recent weeks the Speaker has come under scrutiny for certain personal matters.

“If Rep. Cargill believes issues in his personal life are interfering with his ability to serve the people of this state, I believe he has made the best decision to step down from his duties as Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

“He has always treated me with respect and it has been a pleasure working with him on issues important to our state. I wish him well during this trying time, and will keep Lance and his family in my prayers.”