Senate Republicans met today for the first time since Election Day and elected Sapulpa Republican Senator Brian Bingman as their new leader and Senate President Pro Tempore-designate. Senator Bingman also announced his selection of Senator Mike Schulz of Altus as Floor Leader. The caucus, looking forward to an unprecedented 32-16 majority in the State Senate, came out of the meeting united and looking ahead to electing the remainder of their leadership team next Tuesday, November 16.

Pres. Pro Tempore Designate Brian Bingman announced Wednesday his selection of Sen. David Myers of Ponca City as the new Chairman of Appropriations.

"We must immediately get to work addressing another challenging budget. I know that Senator Myers is well prepared and ready to serve as Chairman of Appropriations,” said Bingman, R-Sapulpa.

Newly elected and reelected members of the Oklahoma State Senate took their Oath of Office during a ceremony Tuesday in the Senate Chamber. The Oath was administered by Oklahoma State Supreme Court Vice-Chief Justice Steven W. Taylor.
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Oklahoma Senate Republicans elected the remaining members of their caucus leadership team on Tuesday.
Last week, Senate Republicans named Sen. Brian Bingman, R-Sapulpa, to serve as the second Republican in the Senate’s top leadership post, President Pro Tempore. Also last week, Bingman named Sen. Mike Schulz, R-Altus, to serve as Majority Floor Leader. Rules were also changed at that time to add a fourth whip to the majority caucus as well as a caucus vice chairman.

On Tuesday, Senate Republicans elected these members of the leadership team:
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Sen. Ralph Shortey on Wednesday announced his intention to introduce immigration reform legislation modeled after a statute approved last year by the Arizona Legislature.

Citing the extraordinary impact of illegal immigration on state resources, Shortey said it was time for Oklahoma to once again step to the forefront on immigration reform.

Sen. Steve Russell today announced an unprecedented and diverse gathering of professionals, including National Football League stars, world-class athletes and entertainers, military heroes and professional organizations that are joining forces to raise awareness and address the staggering needs of America’s veterans and their families.

President Pro Tempore Designate Brian Bingman announced today that former Senator James Williamson will be joining his leadership staff to serve dual roles as Senior Policy Advisor and Legal Counsel.

"Jim is a true statesman. Although we are in a challenging time and we are sure to face difficult decisions this session, Jim is willing to answer the call to service. His experience and knowledge will be a great resource to us as we confront the difficult issues ahead" stated Bingman, R-Sapulpa.

President Pro Tempore Designate Brian Bingman announced Sen. Clark Jolley, R-Edmond as Vice Chairman of Appropriations. Last week Bingman announced Sen. David Myers, R-Ponca City as Chairman of Appropriations.

The decision to select an Appropriations Committee Chair and Vice Chair before other committee selections are made is a result of a focus on budget challenges ahead according to Senator Brian Bingman, R-Sapulpa.

“Sen. Jolley will do an excellent job as Appropriations Vice Chairman. He is ready to start the difficult budget work ahead” stated Bingman.

After receiving an invitation from President Abdoulaye Wade of the Republic of Senegal, Sen. Constance Johnson will be attending the opening week of the World Festival of Black Arts and Cultures in Dakar next month, December 10-17. The Oklahoma City senator will be joining an official U.S, delegation which includes members of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.
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An Oklahoma law to ensure greater opportunities for special needs students is gaining national attention. Enid Republican Patrick Anderson was the Senate author of legislation approved this past session to enable public dollars to fund private educational opportunities for special needs children from single parent and lower income households.
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