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:
read more.

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.
read more.

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.
read more.

“I applaud Governor-elect Fallin on her selection of Pyllis Hudecki as Secretary of Education. She has a proven track record in education and business. Students in our schools, universities, and career tech systems will all improve as a result of her leadership” stated Sen. Clark Jolley, R-Edmond.

Sen. Patrick Anderson will hold an interim study on reforming the state pension systems on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. in Room 511-A of the State Capitol. The executive directors of the various state pension systems will be presenting reports on the current financial status of their respective systems.

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Justice Marian Opala. He epitomizes the very best of public service, representing our state’s highest court with tremendous dignity and professionalism. I know many people are surprised when they learn the polite and friendly juror with a wonderful sense of humor was a part of the Polish Underground in World War II fighting for freedom.